Welcome To My World!

Millionaire

Before going to Europe on business, a man drove his Rolls-Royce to a downtown New York City bank and went in to ask for an immediate loan of $5,000.

The loan officer, taken aback, requested collateral and so the man said, "Well then, here are the keys to my Rolls-Royce."

The loan officer promptly had the car driven into the bank's underground parking for safe keeping, and gave him $5,000.

Two weeks later, the man walked through the bank's doors, and asked to settle up his loan and get his car back. "That will be $5,000 in principal, and $15.40 in interest," the loan officer said. The man wrote out a check and started to walk away.

"Wait, sir," the loan officer said, "while you were gone, I found out you are a millionaire. Why in the world would you need to borrow $5,000?"

The man smiled. "Where else could I park my Rolls-Royce in Manhattan for two weeks and pay only $15.40?"

The ABC's Of Aging

"A" is for apple, and "B" is for Boat,
that used to be right, but now it won't float.
Age before beauty is what we once said,
but let's be a bit more realistic instead.

Now, A's for arthritis; B's the bad back,
C is for chest pains, perhaps cardiac.
D is for dental decay and decline;
E is for eyesight, can't read that top line.

F is for fissures and fluid retention,
G is for gas, which I'd rather not mention.
H is high blood pressure--I'd rather it low;
I for incisions with scars you can show.

J is for joints, out of socket, won't mend.
K is for knees that crack when they bend.
L for libido, what happened to sex?
M is for memory, I forget! What comes next?

N is neuralgia, in nerves way down low;
O is for osteo, the bones that don't grow!
P for prescriptions, I have quite a few,
Just give me a pill and I'll be good as new.

Q is for queasy, is it fatal or flu?
R for reflux, one meal turns to two.
S for sleepless nights, counting my fears.
T for tinnitus; there's bells in my ears.

U is for urinary; big troubles with flow;
V is for vertigo, that's "dizzy" you know.
W is for worry, NOW what's going round?
X is for X-ray, and what might be found.

Y is another year I'm left here behind,
Z is for zest that I still have--in my mind.

What is a Tsunami?

A wave produced by any brief, large-scale disturbance of the ocean floor, principally by a shallow earthquake or earth movement, subsidence, or volcanic eruption; characterized by great speeds (up to 950 kilometers/hour), long wavelengths (up to 200 kilometers), long periods (generally 10-60 minutes); and low observable amplitude on the open sea, although it may rise to heights of 30 meters or more and cause much damage on an exposed coast.

On December 26, 2004, at 7:59 a.m. local time, about 150 kilometers off the coast of the Indonesian island of Sumatra, two tectonic plates heaved under the sea along a 1,000 kilometer-long fault line. The result: a magnitude 9 earthquake – the most powerful the world had seen in 40 years (the fifth of the world in 100 years). Parts of the sea floor rose by about 10 meters, displacing hundreds of cubic kilometers of seawater. That generated a tsunami – a series of huge waves that quickly fanned out across the Indian Ocean.

The waves moved so quickly and slammed into coastal areas of Indonesia, Malaysia, Nicobar Islands, Myanmar, Thailand, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Maldives and – thousands of kilometers away – Somalia in East Africa. The wave destroyed a huge of the built-up tourist resorts, isolated fishing villages, mangrove, beach and etc.. More than 150,000 people were killed. The South Asia tsunami is one of the world's worst natural disasters.

The west coast of Southern Thailand was severely hitThailand, including outlying islands. Six Changwats (Phang Nga, Krabi, Phuket, Ranong, Trang and Satun) are impacted by Tsunami. More than 5,300 are confirmed dead. Half of the bodies identified so far are foreigners, from a total of 36 countries. The severe areas are Phang Nga, Phuket and Krabi (Phi Phi Island).

TSUNAMI SAFETY RULES

All earthquakes do not cause tsunamis but many do. When you hear that an earthquake has occurred, stand by for a tsunami emergency message.

An earthquake in your area is a natural tsunami warning. Do not stay in low-lying coastal area after a strong earthquake has been felt.

A tsunami is not a single wave but a series of waves. Stay out of danger areas until an "all-clear" is issued by a competent authority.

Approaching tsunamis are sometimes preceded by a noticeable rise or fall of coastal water. This is nature's tsunami warning and should be heeded.

A small tsunami at one point on the shore can be few miles away. Don't let the modest size of one make you lose respect for all.

All warnings to the public must be taken very seriously, even if some are for non-destructive events.

All tsunamis like hurricanes are potentially dangerous though they may not damage every coastline they strike.

Never go down to the shore to watch for a tsunami. When you can see the wave you are too close to escape it. Never try to surf a tsunami; most tsunamis are like a flash flood full of debris and they do not curl or break like surfing waves.

During a tsunami local civil defense, police and other emergency organizations will try to save your life. Give them your fullest cooperation.

MAY 31
THE VISITATION OF MARY

Visitation means "visit." The Archangel Gabriel told the Blessed Virgin Mary that her cousin Elizabeth was going to have a baby. Elizabeth was an older woman. Mary knew that she might appreciate some help. She started out at once on the journey.

Mary's trip was long and dangerous. It was uncomfortable, too. But that could not stop her. She rode on a donkey. Mary reached her cousin's house. She was the first to greet Elizabeth. At that moment, God revealed to Elizabeth that Mary had become his mother. Elizabeth asked joyfully, "How have I deserved that the Mother of my Lord should come to me?" Mary remained humble. She quickly gave all the credit to God. He had blessed her so richly.

"My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior," she said. "For he has regarded the lowliness of his handmaid, and holy is his name."

What graces the Blessed Mother brought to the home of her cousin! St. John, while still hidden in his mother's womb, was cleansed of original sin. Zachary was able to speak again. St. Elizabeth was filled with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Mary stayed three months at her cousin's home. With great kindness and love, she helped Elizabeth.

After an earthquake occurs:

Use telephones only for emergencies.
• Check yourself and others for injuries and provide First Aid if needed.
• Be reassuring and helpful to children and others. Check for fires and fire hazards. Put out any fires immediately.
• Check gas, electric, and water lines. Shut off if damaged. If you smell gas and detect a leak, shut off, open all windows and doors, leave immediately, and report leak to authorities.
• Do not flush toilets until sewer lines are checked.
• Open all closet doors and cupboards carefully, because objects will have moved and may fall forwards.
• Volunteer in your neighborhood and shelters.
• Use flashlights instead of candles.

If an evacuation is called:

• Listen to the radio for any emergency instructions.
• Use travel routes specified by local authorities.
• Rely only on confirmed information.
• Do not touch any downed power lines or electric wiring.
• Wear sturdy shoes.
• Take your Family Evacuation Kit.
• Lock your house.
• Take your pets or make arrangements for them.
• Stay out of damaged buildings.
• Post a message where you can be found.

What to do before an Earthquake

Preparation for an earthquake is the best method for minimizing injury or damage during one. There will be no warning and no time to move to protected areas once an earthquake begins. Follow these important steps to prepare yourself and your home for an earthquake:

- Repair defective electrical wiring, leaky gas, and inflexible utility connections. Bolt down water heaters and gas appliances. Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Fasten shelves to walls. Brace high and top-heavy objects. Don't hang heavy objects over the bed. Store bottled foods, glass, china and other breakables on low shelves or in cabinets that can fasten shut. Anchor overhead lighting fixtures. Check and repair deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations. Get expert advice, especially if there are signs of structural defects. Be sure the house is firmly anchored to its foundation.

- Know where and how to shut off electricity, gas, and water at main switches and valves. Check with your local utilities for instructions.

- Hold earthquake drills with your family. Locate safe spots in each room - under a sturdy table or against an inside wall. Reinforce this information by physically placing yourself and your family in these locations. Identify danger zones in each room - near windows where glass can shatter or near bookcases or furniture that can fall over. During an earthquake, each family member should move away from these danger zones to the nearest safe spot.

- Gather emergency supplies and prepare for evacuation in case earthquake damage is severe. Keep tools, flashlights, a portable radio, batteries, a First Aid kit, a fire extinguisher, fresh water, and non-perishable foods handy.

- Develop a plan for reuniting your family after an earthquake. Establish emergency telephone contact for family members to call to let others know that they're okay.

- Review your insurance policies. Some damage may be covered even without specific earthquake insurance. Protect important home and business papers.

EARTHQUAKE FIRE SAFETY TIPS

A wide range of natural disasters and calamities such as earthquake occur around us every year. Natural disasters can have a devastating effect on you and your home. We encourage you to use the following safety tips to help protect yourself, your family and your home from the potential threat of fire during or after an earthquake. You can greatly reduce your chances of becoming a fire casualty by being able to identify potential hazards and following the outlined safety tips.

SOME TYPES OF FIRE RELATED HAZARDS PRESENT DURING AND AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

• Appliances, furniture, and household products can shift, fall, and spill.
• Gas, chemical and electrical hazards may be present.
• Leaking gas lines, damaged or leaking gas propane containers, and leaking vehicle gas tanks could explode or ignite.
• Pools of water or even appliances can be electrically charged.

CHEMICAL SAFETY
• Look for flammable liquids like gasoline, lighter fluid, and paint thinner that may have spilled.
• Thoroughly clean the spill and place containers in a well-ventilated area.
• Keep combustible liquids away from heat sources.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY
• If you can safely get to the main breaker or fuse box, turn off the power.
• Look for items that might have jarred loose during the earthquake.
• Appliances or power connectors could create a fire hazard.
• Assume all wires on the ground are electrically charged. This includes cable TV feeds.
• Look for and replace frayed or cracked extension and appliance cords, loose prongs, and plugs.
• Exposed outlets and wiring could present a fire and life safety hazard.
• Appliances that emit smoke or sparks should be repaired or replaced.
• Have a licensed electrician check your home for damage.

GAS SAFETY
• Smell and listen for leaky gas connections. If you believe there is a gas leak, immediately leave the house and leave the door(s) open.
• Never strike a match. Any size flame can spark an explosion.
• Before turning the gas back on, have the gas system checked by a professional.

GENERATOR SAFETY
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines when using generators.
• Use a generator or other fuel-powered machines outside the home. CO fumes are odorless and can quickly overwhelm you indoors.
• Use the appropriate sized and type power cords to carry the electric load. Overloaded cords can overheat and cause fires.
• Never run cords under rugs or carpets where heat might build up or damage to a cord may go unnoticed.
• Never connect generators to another power source such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or 'backfeed' can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

AND REMEMBER...
• Be careful when using candles. Keep the flame away from combustible objects and out of the reach of children.
• Some smoke alarms may be dependent on your home's electrical service and could be inoperative during a power outage. Check to see if your smoke alarm uses a back-up battery and install a new battery at least once a year.
• Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home.
• All smoke alarms should be tested monthly. All batteries should be replaced with new ones at least once a year.
• If there is a fire hydrant near your home, keep it clear of debris for easy access by the fire department.

MAY 30
ST. JOAN OF ARC

Joan was born in 1412. Her hometown was Domremy, a little village in France. Jacques d'Arc, her father, was a hard working farmer. Her mother was gentle and loving. She taught Joan many practical things. "I can sew and spin as well as any woman," she once said. Joan loved to pray, especially at the shrines of Our Blessed Mother. This honest little peasant girl was to become a heroine. One day while she was watching her sheep, St. Michael the Archangel, the patron of her country, told her, "Daughter of God, go save France!" For three years she heard the voices of saints calling her to action. When she was sixteen, she began her mission.

At that time, there was a war going on between France and England. It was called the Hundred Years' War. England had won so much French land that the king of England called himself the king of France, too. The real French king was weak and fun-loving. He thought the French armies would never be able to save the country.

With his permission, St. Joan led an army into the city of Orleans, which the English had almost captured. In her white, shining armor, this young heroine rode with her banner flying above her. On it were the names of JESUS and MARY. She was hit by an arrow in the great battle of Orleans, but she kept on urging her men to victory. At last they won! St. Joan and her army won more and more battles. The English armies had to retreat.

After the victories, Joan's time of suffering began. She was captured by the enemy. The ungrateful French king did not even try to save her. She was put in prison and after an unfair trial, was burned at the stake. Joan was not even twenty. She had a great horror of fire. Yet she went bravely to her death on May 29, 1431. Her last word was "Jesus." Four hundred and eighty-nine years later, on May 16, 1920, Pope Benedict XV proclaimed Joan a saint.

Children and Earthquakes

Earthquakes are traumatic events for all of us, but they are especially frightening for children who may have to leave their homes and all that is familiar to them. A child does not usually understand such events and feels anxious, confused, and frightened. Fear is a normal reaction to any danger which threatens life or well-being. After an earthquake, a child's fears are those of recurrence, injury, death, or of being alone, separated from the rest of the family. Aftershocks can increase this fear.

Parents sometimes ignore the emotional needs of a child once assured of their physical safety. A child's persistent fears may generate disruptive behavior, surprising and frustrating a parent who is trying to continue with the daily family routine. How a parent can help:

Keep the family together. This provides immediate reassurance to a child; fears of being abandoned and unprotected are alleviated.

Reassure children by words as well as actions. Emphasize the positive: "We are all together and nothing has happened to us," or "You don't have to worry, we will look after you."

Encourage the child to talk. It can also be helpful to include other family members, neighbors, and their children in a talk about reactions to the earthquake.

Include the child in family activities. There will be important concerns and things to do after an earthquake: checking on the damage, cleaning up broken glass and fallen furniture. Whenever possible, a child can and should be included in these activities.

At bedtime, a child may have difficulty falling asleep. The child may wake up during the night, and have nightmares for weeks or months after the earthquake. These situations may be dealt with by allowing the child to move into a room with another child or to sleep on a mattress in the parents' room, or simply by a parent spending a little extra time in the child's room giving reassurance.

Earthquake drills, plans, and supplies

Most people in will surely survive a big earthquake with little loss. However, some people might be severely affected. Actions you take now can reduce how much you and your family will lose.

1. Practice "duck, cover, and hold" drills at home with your family and at work.

•Injuries and deaths during earthquakes are caused by falling objects and collapsing structures. Knowing how to protect yourself when the shaking starts may save your life. Show children safe areas to duck and cover.

•Practice counting to sixty seconds. Most quakes do not last that long, and it will help you to keep calm when a real earthquake strikes.

2. Develop an earthquake plan at home, in your neighborhood, at school, and at work.

•Determine the safest places in your home and at work. These should be away from heavy furniture or appliances, woodstoves, fireplaces, open shelves, and bookcases, and large panes of glass, pictures, or mirrors.

•If the earthquake hits during the day, family members may be separated for several hours to several days. Plan ahead and select a safe place where you can reunite after the earthquake. Consider your family's possible needs, and also select alternative meeting places near work or schools.

•Designate an out-of-the-area telephone contact. Select a relative or friend to act as a clearinghouse for information about your family. Family members should call this contact to report their condition and location. Make sure family members carry this number with them at all times, and that the number is known by other friends and relatives.

•Learn to fight fires, to rescue people trapped under debris, to provide first aid, to find help for dire emergencies, and to assist others, especially the elderly, immobile, or handicapped. Ask your local Red Cross Office for more information.

•The most common cause of earthquake-related fires is broken gas lines. Everyone should know how to turn off the gas supply at the meter in case they smell gas after a large earthquake. Buy a special wrench that fits your gas turnoff valve and fasten it next to the valve.

•Find out the policy of your local school concerning release of children after an earthquake. Arrange with neighbors to watch out for your family and property in case you are not at home.

•Make plans with your family, your neighbors, and your coworkers. Every business should have an emergency response plan.

3. Store emergency supplies.

•After a major earthquake, medical aid, transportation, water, electricity, and communication may be unavailable or severely restricted for several days to weeks. Be prepared to take care of yourself, your family, and your neighbors for at least three days, longer if you live in a remote area.

•At home, at work, and in your car, store flashlights, batteries, an ABC rated fire extinguisher, a battery-operated radio, a first aid kit and handbook, at least one gallon of water per person per day, food, warm clothes, sturdy shoes, gloves, and a fresh supply of any medications you and your family members may need.

•Consider what you will need if an earthquake takes place in the winter. Have warm clothes and sleeping bags and pads for all members of your family.

•Make sure emergency supplies are located in a safe and readily available place.

•Make sure everyone in your family knows where these supplies are and how to use them.

•Include pets in your planning. Plan for their food and water supplies for at least three days. Make arrangements with a neighbor to care for your pet(s) in the event you are unable to get home.

Emergency supplies list

Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. Store these items in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers such as backpacks, duffel bags, or covered trash containers. These are the basics to have on hand for any emergency:

•Flashlights with spare batteries. Keep a flashlight beside your bed. Do not use matches or candles after an earthquake until you are certain no gas leaks exist.

•Battery-operated radio with spare batteries. Most telephones will be out of order or used for emergency purposes, so radios will be your best source of information. An automobile radio is a good substitute.

•First aid kit; first aid knowledge. Have a first aid book. Have members of your household take basic Red Cross first aid and CPR courses.

•Fire extinguisher. Keep a fire extinguisher handy for small fires. Some extinguishers are only good for certain types of fires--electrical, grease, or gas. Class ABC extinguishers are designed to be used safely on any type of fire.

•Food. It's a practical idea to keep a supply of non-perishable food on hand that can be rotated into your diet and be replenished on a regular basis. Have a sufficient supply of canned or dehydrated food, powdered milk, and canned juices for at least three days.

•Water. Water should be stored in airtight containers and replaced every six months. Store at least three gallons per person.

•Warm clothes and blankets. Have enough warm clothes, blankets, and sleeping bags to survive subzero winter temperatures.

•Special items. Keep on hand at least a week's supply of medications and special foods needed for infants or those on limited diets.

•Tools. Have a pipe wrench and an adjustable wrench for turning off gas and water mains.

What to do after an earthquake?

1. Check for injuries. Do not move a seriously injured person unless they are in immediate danger of further injuries.

2. Safety check. Check for the following hazards:

•Fire or fire hazards.

•Gas leaks: Shut off the main gas valve only if a leak is suspected or identified by the odor of natural gas. Wait for the gas company to turn it back on once the damage is repaired.

•Damaged electrical wiring: Shut off power at the control box.

•Downed or damaged utility lines: Stay away from downed lines even if power appears to be off.

•Fallen objects in closets and cupboards: Displaced objects may fall when you open the door.

•Downed or damaged chimneys: Approach chimneys with caution. They may be weakened and could topple during an aftershock.

•Check your telephone: Make sure each phone is on its receiver. Telephones that are off the hook tie up the telephone network unnecessarily.

3. Clean up. Clean up potentially harmful materials and/or medicines which may have spilled.

4. Tsunami hazard. If you live along the coast, be alert for news of tsunami warnings issued by the proper government authorities concerned. If you experience a strong earthquake, there may not be time to issue a warning. Move to higher ground as soon as you are able, and stay there until the authorities issue an "all clear."

5. Expect aftershocks. Most of these are smaller than the main earthquake. Some may be large enough to do additional damage to weakened structures.

•Use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns. Do not use lighters, matches, candles, or lanterns until you are sure there are no gas leaks.

•Use your telephone only in the event of life-threatening emergencies.

•Turn on a battery-powered radio for information, damage reports, and for information on volunteering your assistance.

•Keep streets clear for emergency vehicles. Cooperate with public safety officials.

Dear Friends,

The following is a continuation of my series of information on what to do during times of disasters and calamities such as earthquake.

We will also provide you vital information on basic life-saving techniques being used by first aiders and first responders during rescue operations.

Hope this will help and contribute in minimizing if not elimanating the number of casualties/victims during times of disasters/calamities.

We would gladly welcome all of your comments and/or suggestions on these articles.

What to do during an earthquake?

1. If you are indoors, duck or drop down to the floor. Take cover under a sturdy desk, table or other furniture. Hold on to it and be prepared to move with it. Hold the position until the ground stops shaking and it is safe to move. Stay clear of windows, fireplaces, woodstoves, and heavy furniture or appliances that may fall over. Stay inside to avoid being injured by falling glass or building parts. If you are in a crowded area, take cover where you are. Stay calm and encourage others to do likewise.

2. If you are outside, get into the open, away from buildings and power lines.

3. If you are driving, stop if it is safe, but stay inside your car. Stay away from bridges, overpasses and tunnels. Move your car as far out of the normal traffic pattern as possible. If possible, avoid stopping under trees, light posts, power lines, or signs.

4. If you are in a mountainous area, or near unstable slopes or cliffs, be alert for falling rock and other debris that could be loosened by the earthquake.

5. If you are at the beach, move quickly to higher ground or several hundred yards inland.

Quote For the Day…on “Love”

“Love is the most difficult and dangerous form of courage. Courage is the most desperate, admirable and noble kind of love.”

Author: Delmore Schwartz

Burdens Give Us Wings

An old legend relates that long ago God had a great many burdens which He wished to have carried from one place to another on earth, so He asked the animals to lend a hand. But all of them began to make excuses for not helping: the elephant was too dignified; the lion, too proud; and so on. Finally the birds came to God and said, "If you will tie the burdens into small bundles, we'll be glad to carry them for you. We are small but we would like to help."

So God fastened upon the back of each one a small bundle, and they all set out walking across the plain to their destination. They sang as they went, and did not seem to feel the weight of their burdens at all. Every day the burdens seemed lighter and lighter, until the loads seem to be lifting the birds, instead of the birds carrying the burdens.

When they arrived at their destination, they discovered that when they removed their loads, there were wings in their place, wings which enabled them to fly to the sky and the tree tops.

They had learned how to carry their burdens, and their loads had become wings to carry them nearer to God. Burdens we carry for others may become wings of the spirit, to lift us into happiness such as we have never known.

The Color Of Friendship

Once upon a time the colors of the world started to quarrel. All claimed that they were the best. The most important. The most useful. The favorite.

Green said:
"Clearly I am the most important. I am the sign of life and of hope. I was chosen for grass, trees and leaves. Without me, all animals would die. Look over the countryside and you will see that I am in the majority."

Blue interrupted:
"You only think about the earth, but consider the sky and the sea. It is the water that is the basis of life and drawn up by the clouds from the deep sea. The sky gives space and peace and serenity. Without my peace, you would all be nothing."

Yellow chuckled:
"You are all so serious. I bring laughter, gaiety, and warmth into the world. The sun is yellow, the moon is yellow, the stars are yellow. Every time you look at a sunflower, the whole world starts to smile. Without me there would be no fun."

Orange started next to blow her trumpet:
"I am the color of health and strength. I may be scarce, but I am precious for I serve the needs of human life. I carry the most important vitamins. Think of carrots, pumpkins, oranges, mangoes, and papayas. I don't hang around all the time, but when I fill the sky at sunrise or sunset, my beauty is so striking that no one gives another thought to any of you."

Red could stand it no longer he shouted out:
"I am the ruler of all of you. I am blood - life's blood! I am the color of danger and of bravery. I am willing to fight for a cause. I bring fire into the blood. Without me, the earth would be as empty as the moon. I am the color of passion and of love, the red rose, the poinsettia and the poppy."

Purple rose up to his full height:
He was very tall and spoke with great pomp: "I am the color of royalty and power. Kings, chiefs, and bishops have always chosen me for I am the sign of authority and wisdom. People do not question me! They listen and obey."

Indigo spoke, more quietly than others, but with determination:
"Think of me. I am the color of silence. You hardly notice me, but without me you all become superficial. I represent thought and reflection, twilight and deep water. You need me for balance and contrast, for prayer and inner peace."

And so the colors went on boasting, each convinced of his or her own superiority. Their quarreling became louder and louder. Suddenly there was a startling flash of bright lightening thunder rolled and boomed. Rain started to pour down relentlessly. The colors crouched down in fear, drawing close to one another for comfort.

In the midst of the clamor, God began to speak:
"You foolish colors, fighting amongst yourselves, each trying to dominate the rest. Don't you know that you were each made for a special purpose, unique and different? Join hands with one another and come to me."

Doing as they were told, the colors united and joined hands.

God continued:
"From now on, when it rains, each of you will stretch across the sky in a great bow of color as a reminder that you can all live in peace. The Rainbow is a sign of hope for tomorrow." And so, whenever a good rain washes the world, and a Rainbow appears in the sky, let us remember to appreciate one another.

Spider's Web

A young soldier found himself in a terrible and hopeless battle. The enemy was soundly defeating this young man's army. He and his comrades found themselves hastily retreating from the battle field in defeat, running away in fear for their very lives. The enemy gave chase. This young man ran hard and fast, full of fear and desperation, but soon found himself cut off from his comrades in arms.

He eventually came upon a rocky ledge containing a cave. Knowing the enemy was close behind, and that he was exhausted from the chase, he chose to hide there. After he crawled into the cave, he fell to his face in the darkness, desperately crying to God to save him and protect him from his enemies. He also made a bargain with God, one which I (and perhaps you too?) have made before. He promised that if God saved him, he would serve Him for the remainder of his days.

When he looked up from his despairing plea for help, he saw a spider beginning to weave its web at the entrance of the cave. As he watched the delicate threads being slowly drawn across the mouth of the cave, the young soldier pondered its irony. He thought, "I asked God for protection and deliverance, and he sent me a spider instead. How can a spider save me?"

His heart was hardened, knowing the enemy would soon discover his hiding place and kill him. And soon he did hear the sound of his enemies, who were now scouring the area looking for those in hiding. One soldier with a gun slowly walked up to the cave's entrance. As the young man crouched in the darkness, hoping to surprise the enemy in a last-minute desperate attempt to save his own life, he felt his heart pounding wildly out of control.

As the enemy cautiously moved forward to enter the cave, he came upon the spider's web, which by now was completely strung across the opening. He backed away and called out to a comrade, "There can't be anyone in here. They would have had to break this spider's web to enter the cave. Let's move on."

Years later, this young man, who made good his promise by becoming a preacher and evangelist, wrote about that ordeal. What he observed has stood by me in times of trouble, especially during those times when everything seemed impossible.

He wrote: "Where God is, a spider's web is as a stone wall. Where God is not, a stone wall is as a spider's web."

Why do they leave?

Why do talented employees leave companies?
Come to think of it. This is almost 100% true.

This is the largest studies undertaken by the Gallup Organization.

Read below & find out the answer.

Early this year, Arun, an old friend who is a senior software designer, got an offer from a prestigious international firm to work in its India operations developing specialized software.
He was thrilled by the offer. He had heard a lot about the CEO of this company, a charismatic man often quoted in the business press for his visionary attitude.

The salary was great. The company had all the right systems in place employee-friendly human resources (HR) policies, a spanking new office, the very best technology, even a canteen that served superb food. Twice Arun was sent abroad for training. "My learning curve is the sharpest it's ever been," he said soon after he joined. "It's a real high working with such cutting edge technology."

Last week, less than eight months after he joined, Arun walked out of the job. He has no other offer in hand but he said he couldn't take it anymore.

Nor, apparently, could several other people in his department who have also quit recently. The CEO is distressed about the high employee turnover.

He's distressed about the money he's spent in training them. He's distressed because he can't figure out what happened. Why did this talented employee leave despite a top salary? Arun quit for the same reason that drives many good people away. The answer lies in one of the largest studies undertaken by the Gallup Organization.

The study surveyed over a million employees and 80,000 managers and was published in a book called First Break All The Rules.

It came up with this surprising finding: If you're losing good people, look to their immediate supervisor. More than any other single reason, he is the reason people stay and thrive in an organization. And he's the reason why they quit, taking their knowledge, experience and contacts with them. Often, straight to the competition.

"People leave managers not companies," write the authors Marcus
Buckingham and Curt Coffman. "So much money has been thrown at the challenge of keeping good people - in the form of better pay, better perks and better training -
when, in the end, turnover is mostly a manager issue." If you have a turnover problem, look first to your managers. Are they driving people away?

Beyond a point, an employee's primary need has less to do with money, and more to do with how he's treated and how valued he feels. Much of this depends directly on the immediate manager. And yet, bad bosses seem to happen to good people everywhere. A Fortune magazine survey some years ago found that nearly 75 per cent of employees have suffered at the hands of difficult superiors. You can leave one job to find - you guessed it,
another wolf in a pin-stripe suit in the next one.

Of all the workplace stressors, a bad boss is possibly the worst,
directly impacting the emotional health and productivity of employees.

Here are some all-too common tales from the battlefield:

Dev, an engineer, still shudders as he recalls the almost daily firings his boss subjected him to, usually in front of his subordinates. His boss emasculated him with personal, insulting remarks. In the face of such rage, Dev completely lost the courage to speak up. But when he reached home depressed, he poured himself a few drinks, and magically, became as abusive as the boss himself. Only, it would come out on his wife and children. Not only was his work life in the doldrums, his marriage begun cracking up too.

Another employee Rajat recalls the Chinese torture his boss put him through after a minor disagreement. He cut him off completely. He bypassed him in any decision that needed to be taken. "He stopped sending me any papers or files," says Rajat. "It was humiliating sitting at an......empty table. I knew nothing and no one told me anything." Unable to bear this corporate Siberia, he finally quit.

HR experts say that of all the abuses, employees find public
humiliation the most intolerable. The first time, an employee may not leave, but a thought has been planted. The second time, that thought gets strengthened. The third time, he starts looking for another job.

When people cannot retort openly in anger, they do so by passive
aggression. By digging their heels in and slowing down. By doing only what they are told to do and no more…by omitting to give the boss crucial information. Dev says: "If you work for a jerk, you basically want to get him into trouble. You don't have your heart and soul in the job."

Different managers can stress out employees in different ways - by being too controlling, too suspicious, too pushy, too critical, too nit-picky. But they forget that workers are not fixed assets, they are free agents.

When this goes on too long, an employee will quit -often over seemingly trivial issue. It isn't the 100th blow that knocks a good man down.

It's the 99 that went before. And while it's true that people leave jobs for all kinds of reasons - for better opportunities or for circumstantial reasons, many who leave would have stayed - had it not been for one man constantly telling them, as Arun's boss did: "You are dispensable. I can find dozens like you.

While it seems like there are plenty of other fish especially in
today's waters, consider for a moment the cost of losing a talented employee.

There's the cost of finding a replacement. The cost of training including the cost of not having someone to do the job in the
meantime.

The loss of clients and contacts the person had with the industry. The loss of morale in co-workers. The loss of trade secrets this person may now share with others.

Plus, of course, the loss of the company's reputation. Every person who leaves a corporation then becomes its ambassador, for better or for worse.

We all know of large IT companies that people would love to join and large television companies few want to go near. In both cases, former employees have left to tell their tales.

"Any company trying to compete must figure out a way to engage the mind of every employee," Jack Welch of GE once said. Much of a company's value lies "between the ears of its employees". If it's bleeding talent, it's bleeding value.

Unfortunately, many senior executives busy travelling the world,
signing new deals and developing a vision for the company, have little idea of what may be going on at home.

That deep within an organization that otherwise does all the right
things, one man could be driving its best people away.

MAY 29
ST. MAXIMINIUS

Maximinius was a bishop who lived in the fourth century. It is believed that he was born in Poitiers, France. As a young man, he heard of a saintly bishop of Trier, in Gaul. He traveled to that city and became a disciple of St. Agritius. This holy bishop saw to it that Maximinius received a thorough education. After several years of study and preparation, Maximinius became a priest and then bishop. He took over the diocese of Trier. Bishop Agritius could not have been more pleased. He knew that his people would have a wonderful bishop.

Maximinius lived in exciting times. All you have to do is read the May 2 saint's life to understand. When St. Athanasius of Alexandria, Egypt, was sent into exile to Trier, it was St. Maximinius who welcomed him. He did everything to help Athanasius and to make his time away from his people less painful. Another brave bishop of those times, St. Paul, bishop of Constantinople, was also protected by Maximinius from the wrath of Emperor Constantius.

St. Athanasius wrote that Maximinius was courageous and holy. He said that Maximinius was even well known as a miracle worker. Although it is believed that this bishop wrote much, his works have been lost. But what remains is the memory of his dedication to Jesus and to the Church. Because he was a great man, he was willing to stand up against those who persecuted the Church. He was willing also to protect those brave bishops who fell out of favor with the political powers. Maximinius put his own life on the line even if it meant loss of position or even his life, if necessary. He died around the year 347.

The recent earthquake that devastated Indonesia recently has reminded me once more of the gruesome experience we had in early 1990's wherein our country has been struck by several killer quakes.
True enough, earthquake cannot be immediately predicted unlike typhoons, tsunamis, hurricanes and volcano eruptions. Earthquake strikes anywhere...anytime, like a raging lightning unexpectedly...without warning...without any visible sign.

Hundreds of thousands of precious lives have lost from earthquake catastrophies and sad to say that some of the casualties perished while rescuers were trying their best to save them.

Although we have already developed modern equipment and facilities for saving lives, still, these cannot match and prevent the wrath of mother nature. Ironically, we also lack oftentimes the necessary manpower in saving lives during disasters...be it man-made or natural disaster.

Perhaps the recent tragedy in Indonesia brought by the killer the said earthquake would remind us once more of our preparedness capabilities to cope with any unexpected disaster or calamity that might strike in our own community...in our neighborhood...and perhaps in our very own home.

Maybe its hightime now to face these realities in our lives and be always prepared to face any disaster or calamity that will come across our lives.

Here in our own community, we created an organization composed of volunteer residents who were trained by our government to handle emergency jobs such as emergency rescue, evacuation, fire and security, relief operations, transportations and others during times of disasters and calamities. These volunteers were trained to handle various emergency situations within their homes, neighborhood and community while awaiting for the arrival of the help and assistance from all government agencies concerned as well as non-government organizations.

This community-based volunteer organization has been effected so far within our community. I hope that this may be also effective and workable to other places such as yours. You can start forming your own emergency rescue team within your homes...within your neighborhood...within your community...within the circle of your friends and relatives.

You may seek the assistance of your local government offices in terms of proper training, seminars and perhaps some supplies and equipment that your organization may require during times of emergencies. There might be also some non-government organizations and private sectors in your community that are offering aid and assistance such as free ambulance, fire trucks, transport vehicles and basic rescue equipment to your community organization.

Come on friends...let's try to do it now! Remember, the life you will be able to save now maybe yours!

I hope that in my own small way, I was able to contribute something patriotic in nature to you all my blog friends. We are doing this in our dire efforts to save the precious lives of our families, relatives, friends, neighbors and our countrymen...as well as our hard-earned properties and our Mother Earth from its total destruction.

We would greatly appreciate your comments and suggestions that will improve further the effectiveness and capabilities of our own community-based disaster preparedness team.

Have a nice and peaceful day to all!

When We Share

When we share laughter,

There's twice the fun;

When we share success,

We surpass what we've done.

When we share problems,

There's half the pain;

When we share tears,

A rainbow follows rain.

When we share dreams,

They become more real;

When we share secrets,

It's our hearts we reveal.

If we share a smile,

Then our love shows;

If we share a hug,

Then our love grows.

If we share with someone

On whom we depend,

That person becomes

Family or friend.

And what draws us closer

And makes us all care,

Is not what we have,

But the things that we share.

If You Have A Dream

Don't wait for some distant day to come,
it may be too late before you've even begun.
Not everyone will agree with all you decide.

Be true to yourself first and foremost.
The only important thing in life is what
you do with the time you spend here on earth.

Don't cloud today with things that can't
be undone. You have no more control over
yesterday or tomorrow, than you do the raging
of your passions.

Do not quiet these dreams
nor quench your desires. For if you do,
your journey is ended.

You have only today to begin anew and
follow your dreams. For in the end all
we have are our memories.

When the twilight comes to us, let there
be, no excuses, no explanations,
no regrets!

Promised Roses

God never promised roses
Strewn along the way
He never promised angels
To cross our path each day

He never made a promise
Of a night without a tear
Sunlight always shining
And no storm for us to fear

God never promised us
A life without some pain
He never promised us
Great riches we would gain

He promised if we called
Upon His name in prayer
Down on our bended knee
That He would meet us there

God promised us to be
A shelter from the storm
A Rock on which to lean
Strength when we are worn

He promised us a refuge
Beneath His gentle wing
And in the midnight hour
A victory song to sing

God promised in the fire
His presence would be found
And through the troubled waters
He would not let us drown

He promised us a Home
If only faithful we would stay
Forever promised roses
Strewn along the way

TODAY

Since yesterday is in the past
And tomorrow you might not see
You need to live to the fullest
This day God has granted to thee.

Be loving and kind to all you meet
Spread cheer and joy on your way
Say, "I love you" to your loved ones
And for peace on earth you should pray.

Share your faith with lost ones as
God bids all His children to do
He wants not one soul left behind
One might be saved because of you.

A lonely person you could visit
To help brighten up their day
You could feed one who’s hungry
Offer a place for someone to stay.

There is so much that you can do
Before this day is through
Only but for the grace of God
One of these just might be you.

Be thankful for all your blessings
Never take them for granted at all
God gives you all you need to have
And He will ‘til His final call.

Be ready and always listen
For you never know when He’ll say
The past and future you don’t need
But my child, I need you today.

The Storms of Life

Caught up in the storms of life,
Not knowing which way to turn,
I call upon my best friend
To carry me through the storm.

He walks beside me every step,
Guiding me along the way.
He carries me when I can't walk
And brings sunshine to my day.

He comforts me when I am torn
And fills my heart with peace.
He wipes away all of my tears
When I'm crying on my knees.

Though others may desert me,
My friend is always there.
Though others let me down,
I know He always cares.

He never will forsake me.
His love for me is true.
My friend who carries me
Can also carry you.

Has your heart been broken?
Have you been betrayed?
Do you wonder where to go?
Have you lost your way?

The only way is Jesus.
Give your heart to Him, my friend.
Put the darkness behind you
And find joy in following Him.

By giving your heart to Jesus,
You will never be alone.
You'll find a greater peace
Than you have ever known.

Once you know my Jesus
And storms come crashing in,
You will not be consumed ...
Just call upon your friend.

Jesus is your protection
From the storms of life.
You will never have to fear
With Jesus by your side.

There's Always A Way!

When we're tested and tried,
It makes us so sad.
That makes our faith waver
And we feel so bad!

Jesus knows all
That happens to us.
He takes it to God,
And raises a fuss!

He says, "Father, this is my child,
I don't want him to be sad.
Please take care of him
And help him feel glad."

Then God intervenes
And changes the way.
Things that have bothered us,
Grow dimmer each day!

Then we realize
God is on our side!
When bad things happen,
His arms open wide.

We are then invited.
To trust in His love.
He will take care of us.
Till we meet Him above!

MAY 28
BLESSED MARGARET POLE

Blessed Margaret was born in 1471. She was the niece of two English kings, Edward IV and Richard III. Henry VII arranged her marriage to Sir Reginald Pole. He was a brave soldier and a friend of the royal family. By the time King Henry VIII came into power, Margaret was a widow with five children. The young Henry VIII was new to the throne and new to power. He called Margaret the holiest woman in England. He was so impressed with her that he returned some property her family had lost in the past. He also made her a countess.

Henry trusted her so much that Countess Margaret was appointed the governess of Princess Mary, his and Queen Catherine's daughter. But then Henry tried to marry Anne Boleyn although he already had a wife. Margaret did not approve of the king's behavior. The king made her leave the court. He let her know he was very displeased with her. The king was even more upset when one of Margaret's sons, a priest, wrote a long article against Henry's claim to be head of the Church in England. (Her son was to become the famous Cardinal Reginald Pole.) Henry was out of control. He had become cruel and hateful. He threatened to get rid of Margaret's whole family.

Henry sent people to question Countess Margaret. They were supposed to prove that she was a traitor. They questioned her from noon until evening. She never made any mistakes. She had nothing to hide. Margaret was kept under house arrest at the castle of a nobleman. Then she was moved to the huge tower of London. She never even had a trial. During the long winter months, she suffered very much from the cold and dampness. She had no fire and not enough warm clothing.

Finally, on May 28, 1541, Blessed Margaret was led out of the tower to the place of execution. She was tired and sick, but she stood tall and proud to die for her faith. "I am no traitor," she said courageously. Margaret was beheaded. She was seventy years old.

To Touch The Heart

To touch the heart of someone dear -
though it might sometimes cause a tear
to fall or rest upon the cheek -
'Tis something we all should seek.

For often hearts not touched at all,
start hardening and shrinking small.
And then the time it takes to grow
A loving heart again - is very slow.

For hearts expand as those who care -
extend their love and - let us share
a moment, space or special phrase,
that eases pain on dreary days.
Or simply starts our lips to smile,
and brightens time for just a while.

The ways and kinds and means of sharing,
it seems to me - are based on caring.
And though we're often worlds apart,
You still can touch my tender heart.
You can make me smile or shed a tear,
And I'll remember you year after year.
YOU "touched" my heart and helped me grow.
Friend, I just thought I'd tell you so.

Flying Above The Storm

Did you know that an eagle knows when a storm is approaching long before it breaks?

The eagle will fly to some high spot and wait for the winds to come.

When the storm hits, it sets its wings so that the wind will pick it up and lift it high above the storm.

While the storm rages below, the eagle is soaring high above it, gliding with ease.

The eagle does not escape the storm, it just simply uses the storm to lift it higher.

It rises on the winds that bring the storm into its world.

When the storms of life come upon us -- and all of us will experience them -- we can rise above them by setting our minds and faith toward God!!!

The storms do not have to overcome us.

We can allow God to lift us above them. God enables us to ride the winds of the storm that brings sickness, pain, tragedy, failure and disappointments in our lives, and make something good come from it.

We can soar above the storm.

Remember, it is not the burdens of life which weigh us down, but it is how we handle them that counts.

The Sky is Falling

Helena looked up at the sky and wondered how it had become so blue. It matched her mood perfectly. To Helena, being in a blue mood meant sadness.

Helena had been having days of sadness and trial for many months and today, when she looked up at the sky, she suddenly felt the urge to find an answer. She looked up at the sky and demanded to know, "Why me? Why does it all happen to me?"

No answer. Helena decided that maybe what she needed more than a reason was assistance. She had struggled alone for so long. She had never asked anyone to help her. People were always offering to help, but always doing things that she thought only made matters worse. She was stubbornly certain that only her way of doing things could make things right. Also, she had been sure she could manage all alone. Now she was rethinking.

On an impulse, Helena cried out to the heavens, "Help me. Please. I need help."

As she shouted the last word she saw a crack appear in the blue above her. The crack began to twist and turn and spread until it formed an odd shape. Then the shape shook and wriggled until it freed itself from the rest of the heavens. Then the piece of sky fell. It did not plummet. It simply drifted down end over end until it landed in Helena's lap and let out a small sigh.

Helena let out a yelp of shock and looked up to see a black hole where the little blue piece had once been. Helena gazed at the little blue piece. It was soft, thin and slippery as a piece of the finest silk.

"Oh no!" Helena said aloud. She was sure that her life had just gone from bad to worse. Then she looked up and shouted, "What is happening? Help me."

In her hands the little silky swatch sighed again. Then it seemed to melt through her fingers and attach to her skirt like a patch. In a panic, Helena tried to tug the little patch free, but failed.

This was the last straw for Helena. She had suffered failure and loss and defeat in the past months. Every single thing she had touched had come to ruin and she was in despair. Now, when she asked for help from above, the result was to have the very sky fall down on her. Helena looked up and shouted, "I know you are there! You, who made me and the sky and all things. I asked you for help and you have made the sky fall on me. Why? Why are you doing this to me?"

In answer, there came another crack in the heavens, and another piece of the sky detached itself and began to float downward. This time, Helena jumped up, gathered her skirts and ran as fast as she could to keep the patch from landing on her. But try as she might, the wind carried the piece of sky and it soon found a resting place on her shoulder, where it attached itself.

Helena stamped her foot in frustration. "Get off," she shouted as she tugged at the patch.

Looking up at the sky, she saw the growing blackness. There were no stars in the black part of the sky. It looked like a piece of black velvet stitched onto the blue satin of the heavens.

With each request she cried out, a new patch fell, and Helena fought against it, tearing at herself. She did this over and over until she was too exhausted to fight and sat down, staring at the patches on her clothing. Then she laid her hand on one broad piece of blue. It didn't feel like fabric. It felt softer and it sent a shivery feeling through her hand as her fingers slid across it.

Her mind began to wander. She thought of all the times she had found joy beneath a blue sky. She remembered smiles and sun. Helena began to stroke the patch on her skirt. It felt lovely and soft. Before she knew what was happening, she had a little smile tugging at the corner of her mouth.

But because this was not the kind of help Helena expected to get, she forced herself to stop smiling. She stopped stroking the patch of sky she wore and began to shout up again, "This is not helping my problems! I need help."

To her horror, huge new cracks began to form and two large sections of the blue released themselves and began to come down to her at a faster rate. Instead of floating, these seemed to form into large wings and they came down in a swift glide.

Again, Helena got up and ran as fast as she could. Again the sky caught up with her and this time, it wrapped her like a blanket. Helena had the strangest feeling of being given an enormous blue, shiny, soft hug. She closed her eyes and felt herself being propelled backward. She toppled over and landed on her back in the grass. Helena fought, but the feeling of love and peace that now surrounded her stopped her struggles. It took a few moments before Helena opened her eyes. She was covered from head to foot in a flowing robe of the finest, heavenly blue. Though it was thin and there was now quite a strong wind coming from the black hole in the sky, Helena felt warm and comfortable. She felt loved and happy and safe.

Helena smiled and looked up at the sky. Softly she called up, "I don't understand what just happened."

Then there came a voice like no other she had ever heard. It seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere. It sang through the trees, and rumbled through the earth and sighed in the long grass." You prayed for help and help has come," said the voice. "You have been given back what you lost. Piece by piece I have patched you up."

The voice continued, "You cloaked yourself in anger, fear and sadness. Now you have been given something far better to wear. You have been given love and peace. Wear them well."

Helena wrinkled her brow and shook her head. "I asked for help and the sky fell," she said. "I was overwhelmed and knocked down." The voice came to her from all around and said, "Sometimes having the sky fall on you is the greatest of gifts. You have learned that you can survive and find peace even after all seemed lost. You learned that even though the very heavens may come to rest on your shoulders, the burden could be as light as air."

Helena smiled. As she gazed at the sky the hole began to mend itself, getting smaller and smaller until all was blue and clear again. She stretched out her arm to wave to the sky and found that her clothes were just as they had always been. The blue robes had vanished. "Don't leave me," she cried out in fear.

The voice that was everywhere and nowhere came to her and said, "I surround you as the veil that is the sky covers the Earth. Like the blue of the sky, I may not always be seen. The clouds of worry or sadness may hide me. At times you may run from me or be in darkness as black as night. But I am, and always will be, with you."

For the first time in her life, Helena felt true peace and calm. She knew these words were the truest she had ever heard. She lay back in the grass under the blue sky and fell asleep. She slept for the day and the night.

The next morning when she woke she found that her family and friends had become worried over her being gone so long and had come to find her. Helena hugged each one and smiled as she had not smiled in a very long time. "What has happened to change you so," a friend asked. Helena grinned and looked up, "I just learned how much I am loved and how good it feels to know I am not alone."

From that day to this, Helena spent her days and nights knowing that no matter what happened, there was a little piece of heaven sitting on her shoulder.

MAY 27
ST. AUGUSTINE OF CANTERBURY

St. Augustine was the abbot of St. Andrew's monastery in Rome. Pope St. Gregory the Great chose him and forty other monks for a mission dear to his heart. They were to preach the Gospel to the people of England. Abbot Augustine and the monks started on their journey. When they reached southern France, people warned them that the English were fierce. The monks felt discouraged. They asked Augustine to go back to obtain the pope's permission to give up the whole idea. They did, but the pope asked them to go to England just the same. He said that the people wanted to accept the Christian faith. The monks went to England. They arrived in 596.

The missionaries were well received by King Ethelbert, whose wife was a Christian princess from France. The monks formed a procession when they landed. They walked along singing psalms. They carried a cross and a picture of our Lord. Many people received the monks' message. King Ethelbert himself was baptized on Pentecost, 597. Abbot Augustine became a bishop that same year.

St. Augustine often wrote to ask the pope advice. And Pope St. Gregory gave him much holy advice, too. Speaking about the many miracles St. Augustine worked, the pope said: "You must rejoice with fear and fear with joy for that gift." He meant that Augustine should be happy that through the miracles the English were being converted. But he should be careful not to become proud.

At Canterbury, St. Augustine built a church and a monastery, which became the most important in England. It was there that he was buried. St. Augustine died seven years after his arrival in England, on May 26, 605.

We Are Blest

We all have our dark valleys,
And we have our days of rest,
Life's road is strewn with puddles,
But we are truly blest.

It isn't always easy,
To be thankful in a storm,
But when we seek long enough,
Our lives will be transformed.

And as we walk down memory lane,
In our golden years,
We have much to smile about,
And smiles can defeat our fears.

We have wandered in green meadows,
Our sins we have confessed,
We know the lessons we have learned,
And we have been truly blest!

Today we see beyond the clouds,
Yesterday was a real mess;
But as we look toward heaven,
We are riding on a crest.

When we hear the thunder rolling,
And see lightening full of zest,
There comes a lovely rainbow,
And, once again, we've been blessed.

Heaven and Hell

A man spoke with the Lord about heaven and hell. The Lord said to the man "come, I will show you hell." They entered a room where a group of hungry people sat around a huge pot of cooking stew. Everyone in the room was starving. Each person held a spoon that reached the pot but each spoon had a handle so much longer than their own arms that it could not be used to get the stew into their own mouths. The suffering was terrible. "Come now, I will show you heaven" the Lord said.

They entered a room identical to the first, the big pot of stew, the group of people and the same long-handled spoons. But here everyone was happy and well nourished. "I don't understand" said the man. "Why is everyone happy here and miserable in the other room? Everything is the same."

"Here, said the Lord, they have learned to SERVE each other."

The Stone in the Road

There is a story told of a king who lived long ago in a country across the sea. He was a very wise king, and spared no effort to teach his people good habits. Often he did things which seemed to them strange and useless; but all that he did, he did to teach his people to be industrious and careful.

“Nothing good can come to a nation,” he said, “whose people complain and expect others to fix their problems for them. God gives the good things of life to those who take matters into their own hands.”

One night, while everyone else slept, he placed a large stone in the road that led past his palace. Then he hid behind a hedge, and waited to see what would happen.

First came a farmer with his wagon heavily loaded with grain, which he was taking to the mill to be ground.

“Well, whoever saw such carelessness?” he said crossly, as he turned his team and drove around the stone. “Why don’t these lazy people have that rock taken from the road?” And so he went on complaining of the uselessness of others, but not touching the stone himself.

Soon afterward, a young soldier came singing along the road. The long plume of his cap waved in the breeze, and a bright sword hung at his side. He was thinking of the wonderful bravery he would show in the war.

The soldier did not see the stone, but struck his foot against it and went sprawling in the dust. He rose to his feet, shook the dust from his clothes, picked up his sword, and stormed angrily about the lazy people who had no more sense than to leave such a huge rock in the road. Then he, too, walked away, not once thinking that he might move it himself.

So the day passed. Everyone who came by complained and whined because the stone lay in the road, but no one touched it.

At last, just at nightfall, the miller’s daughter came past. She was a hard-working girl, and was very tired, because she had been busy since early morning at the mill.

But she said to herself, “It is almost dark. Somebody may fall over this stone in the night, and perhaps he could be badly hurt. I will move it out of the way.”

So she tugged at the heavy stone. It was hard to move, but she pulled and pulled, and pushed, and lifted until at last she moved it from its place. To her surprise, she found a box underneath.

She lifted the box. It was heavy, for it was filled with something. Upon it was written: “This box belongs to the one who moved the stone.”

She opened the lid, and found it was full of gold!

The miller’s daughter went home with a happy heart. When the farmer and the soldier and all the others heard what had happened, they gathered around the spot in the road where the stone had been. They scratched at the dust with their feet, hoping to turn up a piece of gold.

“My friends,” said the king, “we often find obstacles and burdens in our way. We may complain out loud while we walk around them if we choose, or we can lift them and find out what they mean. Disappointment is usually the price of laziness.”

Then the wise king mounted his horse and, with a polite “Good evening,” rode away.

MAY 26
ST. PHILIP NERI

St. Philip Neri was born in Florence, Italy, in 1515. As a child, his nickname was "Good little Phil." He was always so jolly and friendly that everyone he met loved him. Philip went to Rome as a teenager. He studied theology and philosophy for three years and was a good student. Above all, Philip was a very active Christian. He lived simply and worked hard. But he also did much good for the people around him. He helped poor children. He donated his time to the sick. He was a friend to people who were troubled and lonely. In fact, he reached out to everybody he could for the love of Jesus.

Philip helped start an organization of lay people to take care of needy pilgrims. That ministry gradually continued as a famous Roman hospital. The priest who guided him realized that Philip was doing so much to help the Christians of Rome become fervent again. But it became obvious when Philip was thirty-six that he had the call to be a priest. It was then that he began his most wonderful ministry for others. He started to hear confessions. He was available for the sacrament of Reconciliation for several hours every day. The lines of people who came to him grew longer. But Father Philip was never in a hurry. He never ran out of patience and gentleness.

People began to notice that he could read their minds at times. He could, in some circumstances, foretell the future. The Lord even worked miracles through him. But all Philip wanted to do was bring Jesus to the people. To avoid their admiration, he acted silly once in a while. He wanted people to laugh and forget that they thought he was holy.

St. Philip was making a difference, though. Because of him, the whole city of Rome was becoming better. Once he started to think about being a missionary to far-off lands. He was very impressed by the life of St. Francis Xavier, who had died in 1552 at the gate of China. Philip had just been one year a priest at the time of St. Xavier's death. Should he leave Rome and volunteer for the missions? A holy Cistercian monk told him "Rome is to be your mission land." After that, Father Philip was at peace.

St. Philip spent the last five years of his life offering the sacrament of Reconciliation to the people. He died at the age of eighty in 1595. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Gregory XV in 1622.

Love Never Fails

How many times do you suppose
We've hurt people and not realized it;
To have reacted without thought;
To have deemed another not ready ...

Worthy, capable, or spiritual enough;
to have picked our favorite over another;
To have excluded one who didn't measure up;
To sit by one more attractive, popular, or fun ...

To have been in such a hurry to greet one
That we bypassed another;
To have closed our heart to someone
Whose words we didn't want to hear ...

To think we've done God a favor
By getting rid of someone we thought
Difficult, different, or wrong?

How many times do you suppose
This prayer has been prayed for us,
"Father, forgive them; for
They know not what they do?"

Were we to ask God to open our eyes,
To see ourselves as He sees us;
To examine our heart, actions,
Attitudes, and motives ...

God would be faithful
To show us how we
Are hurting His cause.

Once we've found our sin
And corrected it,
We can ask God to show us
Another and, then, another.

One step at a time,
We'll be weeding out the flesh
And Satan's power over us
While winning the world to Christ.

The Scholar's Four Questions

There was once a great scholar. Everybody in the kingdom appreciated him because he was so learned. Unfortunately, in spite of his great learning he had great pride.

One day this scholar put on a gold necklace and went to the palace of another king. He said, "Whoever can defeat me in wisdom will get this necklace. I challenge everybody!"

All the scholars in that particular kingdom had heard about this scholar and they were afraid that they would lose. So they would not accept his challenge. The king was very sad that nobody would accept the challenge.

Finally, the court jester said, I accept your challenge."

The king had almost surrendered to the scholar but thought it would be amusing to see his jester compete. He believed he was only a joker and would not be able to win the necklace.

The court jester said, “I will ask you four questions. if you answer any of my questions correctly, then you will lose, but if all your answers are incorrect, then I will accept defeat and the king will give you anything you want."

Then the court jester asked his first question: "Where do you come from?"

The scholar said, I live here." This was incorrect, since he came from another kingdom. So by giving the wrong answer the scholar passed the first test.

The jester's second question was, "How long have you been here?"

"Three years," the scholar said, which was also incorrect. Still the court jester was unable to trick him.

The third time the jester asked, "Our king is good, kind and generous. Do you agree?"

The scholar said, "Your king? What you are saying is totally wrong. Your king is undivine and very unkind." So again the scholar passed the test.

The court jester said, "It seems that I can't defeat you. How many questions have I asked so far?"

The scholar said, "You have asked me three questions; you have one more. If I do not answer it correctly you will lose. "

The court jester cried out, "Look! The scholar has lost. He has answered this question correctly."

So the scholar gave his necklace to the court jester, and the jester immediately gave it to the king. The scholar's pride was totally smashed. He said, "I will never come to your kingdom to challenge anybody again."

All the scholars were very impressed by the court jester's cleverness. They knew that they would not have been able to defeat the great scholar. The jester said, "You see, when great scholars are not alert, they lose. Had he been alert, he could have saved himself."

MAY 25

The current Roman calendar lists three saints on May 25. Their stories are briefly presented here, one after another.

VENERABLE BEDE

This English priest is famous as a saint, a priest, a monk, a teacher and a writer of history. He was born in England in 673. His parents sent Bede to the local Benedictine monastery to receive an education. He loved the life of the monks so much that when he grew up he became a monk. He remained in that same monastery for the rest of his life.
St. Bede loved the Holy Bible very much. He tells us that it was a joy for him to study the Bible. He loved to teach it and write about it. When he grew older, sickness at last forced him to stay in bed. His pupils came to study by his bedside. He kept on teaching them and working on his translation of St. John's Gospel into English. Many people could not read Latin. He wanted them to be able to read the words of Jesus in their own language.

As he grew sicker, St. Bede realized that he was about to go back to God. The monks would miss him very much. He kept on working even when he was seriously ill. At last, the boy who was doing the writing for him said, "There is still one sentence, dear Father, which is not written down." "Write it quickly," answered the saint. When the boy said, "It is finished," the saint said, "Good! You are right-it is finished. Now please hold my head up. I want to sit facing the place where I used to pray. I want to call on my Heavenly Father."

St. Bede died shortly after, on May 25, 735. His most famous book, Church History of the English People, is the only source for much of early English history. People call Bede by the respectful title of "venerable." He is also a Doctor of the Church.

ST. GREGORY VII

This pope's name was Hildebrand. He was born in Italy around 1023. His uncle was a monk in Rome so Hildebrand went to the monastery to be educated. Later, Hildebrand became a Benedictine monk in France. Soon, however, he was called back to Rome. There he held very important positions under several popes until he himself was made pope.

For twenty-five years, he had refused to let himself be elected. But when Pope Alexander II died, the cardinals made up their minds to elect Hildebrand pope. With one voice they cried out: "Hildebrand is the elect of St. Peter!" "They carried me to the throne," the saint wrote afterward. "My protests did no good. Fear filled my heart and darkness was all around me." Hildebrand chose the name Gregory VII.

These were truly dark times for the Catholic Church. Kings and emperors were interfering in Church matters. They named the men they wanted to be bishops, cardinals and even popes. Many of those appointed were not very good men. They were bad examples to the people.

The first thing Pope St. Gregory did was to spend several days in prayer. He also asked others to pray for him. He realized that without prayer nothing can be done well for God. Afterward, he began to act to make the clergy better. He also took steps to keep civil rulers out of the affairs of the Church. This was very difficult because the rulers were all against the change. However, some gave in.

One ruler, Emperor Henry IV of Germany, caused Pope Gregory great sufferings. This young man was sinful and greedy for gold. He would not stop trying to run the affairs of the Church. He even sent his men to capture the pope. But the people of Rome rescued the saint from prison. Pope Gregory excommunicated the emperor. That did nothing to stop Henry IV. He chose his own pope. Of course, the man he chose was not the real pope. But Henry tried to make people think he was. Then, once again, the emperor sent his armies to capture the saint. Pope Gregory was forced to leave Rome. He was taken safely to Salerno where he died in 1085. His last words were, "I have loved justice and hated evil. That is why I am dying in exile." He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Paul V in 1606.

Pope Gregory VII (Hildebrand) is known for his tremendous personal courage. He stood up for the cause of Jesus and his Church.

ST. MARY MAGDALEN DE PAZZI

Catherine de Pazzi was born in Florence, Italy, in 1566. She was the only daughter of very rich parents. When she was fourteen, Catherine became a boarder at a convent school. There she grew to love life in a religious house. But about a year later, her father took her home. He began to think of choosing a rich husband for her. However, Catherine's heart was set on becoming a nun. She shocked her parents by telling them she had already made a vow of chastity. They could not believe it. Finally, they let her enter the Carmelite convent. Only fifteen days later, however, they came and took her home. They hoped to make her change her mind. After three months of trying, they gave up. They let her go back for good, with their blessing. It was 1582, the year St. Teresa of Avila died in Spain.

As a novice, St. Mary Magdalen became very sick. The nuns feared she might die. She was permitted to pronounce her religious vows. Since she was suffering greatly, one of the sisters asked her how she could stand that pain without a word. The saint pointed to the crucifix. She said: "See what the great love of God has suffered for my salvation. This same love sees my weakness and gives me strength."

St. Mary Magdalen had great sufferings her whole life. She also had very strong temptations to impurity and to greed for food. She overcame everything by her great love for Jesus in the Holy Eucharist and for Mary. Often she ate only bread and water. She practiced other acts of self-denial, too. Moreover, her love for Jesus became so great that she would say, "Love is not loved, not known by his own creatures." With tears, she would pray and offer her pains for sinners and unbelievers, right up until she died. She once said: "O my Jesus, if I had a voice loud and strong enough to be heard in every part of the world, I would cry out to make you known and loved by everyone!"

St. Mary Magdalen de Pazzi died on May 25, 1607, at the age of forty-one. She was proclaimed a saint by Pope Clement IX in 1669.

A Glimpse Into the Future

If we could get just one glimpse
Of what our future holds,
We would surely be more careful
Of how our life unfolds!

Just to get a glimpse
Of Hell's consuming flame,
Would surely cause us
To never be the same!

A glimpse should be enough
To show us what's ahead,
Unless we call on Jesus
Before the time we're dead!

A glimpse into Heaven
Gives us a hope for sure.
If we can just get there
Our heart must be so pure!

But Jesus, our Lord and Savior
Knocks on our heart's door.
Then when we ask Him in
He will leave us nevermore!

Then we shall one day see the whole,
Not just a glimpse of Heaven fair!
Let's go walk those streets of gold,
Then a glimpse can not compare!

The King and the Sage

Once there was a king who was always fighting. One day he was badly wounded in a battle. A sage passed by and touched him, and the king was cured. He wanted to give the sage a reward for saving him, but the sage didn't want anything.

The king said, "I don't want to be indebted to you."

The sage said, "In the future I'll ask for something. I don't need anything now, but one day I'll come."

Months passed and the sage was praying to God one day for peace, light and bliss, when a desire entered his mind. For the past few months his cow had not been producing milk. "She's old," he said. "I'll ask the king for a new cow."

He went to see the king and found him in a temple. He was praying for more wealth and more fame.

The sage said to himself, "I won't ask him for a cow. He's a beggar like me." And he turned to leave.

The king stopped him and said, "Sage, you saved my life. Please tell me what you want. I'll give you anything."

The sage said, "I pray to God and meditate. He is all I need. I don't want to take anything from anyone in need. You told me you took an oath that you would not be indebted to anyone. I, too, have taken an oath. My oath is that if anyone is in need, then I won't take anything from that person. That's why I won't take anything from you. You're praying to God for material things. You're begging for God to give you wealth and fame. So how can I ask anything of you? God has shown me that everyone is a beggar. So if I need something, I'll get it from Him."

MAY 24
ST. DAVID I OF SCOTLAND

David was born in 1080. He was the youngest son of St. Margaret, queen of Scotland, and her good husband, King Malcom. David himself became king when he was about forty. Those who knew him well saw how little he wanted to accept the royal crown. But once he was king, he was a very good one.

St. David ruled his kingdom with great justice. He was very charitable to the poor. All of his subjects were free to visit him whenever they desired. He gave everyone a good example with his own love of prayer. Under this holy king, the people of Scotland united more closely into one nation. They became better Christians.

King David established new dioceses. He built many new monasteries. He gave much money to the Church during his rule of about twenty years.Two days before he died, he received the last sacraments. He spent his time praying with those attending him. The next day, they urged him to rest. King David answered, "Let me think about the things of God, instead, so that my soul may be strengthened on its trip from exile to home." By home, the saint meant our heavenly home. "When I stand before God's judgment seat, you will not be able to answer for me or defend me," he said. "No one will be able to deliver me from his hand." So he kept on praying right up until he died. St. David died on May 24, 1153.

An old, bearded shepherd with a crooked staff walked up to a stone pulpit and said, "And lo, it came to pass that the trader by the name of Abraham.Com did take unto himself a young wife by the name of Dot."

And Dot Com was a comely woman, broad of shoulder and long of leg. Indeed, she had been called Amazon Dot Com. And she said unto Abraham, her husband, "Why dost thou travel far, from town to town, with thy goods when thou can trade without ever leaving thy tent?"

And Abraham did look at her as though she were several saddle bags short of a camel load, but simply said, "How, dear? And Dot replied, "I will place drums in all the towns (and drums in between the towns) to send messages saying what you have for sale and they will reply, telling you which hath the best price. And the sale can be made on the drums and delivery made by Uriah's Pony Stable (UPS)."

Abraham thought long and decided he would let Dot have her way with the drums. And the drums rang out and were an immediate success. Abraham sold all the goods he had, at the top price, without ever moving from his tent. But this success did arouse envy. A man named Maccabia did secret himself inside Abraham's drum and was accused of insider trading.

And lo, the land was so feverish with joy at the new riches and the deafening sound of drums, that no one noticed the real riches were going to the drum maker, one Brother William of Gates, who bought up every drum company in the land. And, indeed, he did insist on making drums that would work only if you bought Brother Gates' drumsticks.

And Dot said, "Oh, Abraham, what we have started is being taken over by others. And, as Abraham looked out over the Bay of Ezekiel, or as it came to be known, "eBay", he said, "We need a name that reflects what we are," and Dot replied, Young Ambitious Hebrew Owner Operators."

"Whoopee!", said Abraham.

"No, YAHOO!" said Dot Com... and that is how it all began.

MAY 23
ST. JOHN BAPTIST ROSSI

John Baptist Rossi was born in 1698 in a village near Genoa, Italy. His family loved him. They were proud when a wealthy couple visiting their town offered to educate him. His parents knew the couple and trusted them. John was happy to be able to go to their house in Genoa because then he could attend school. Everything was going well for John. He became a student for the priesthood at the Roman College. He realized that studies were easy for him and took on more and more of a load.

John became very sick and had to stop his studies for a while. After he recovered enough, he completed his preparation and became a priest. Even though his health was always poor, Father John did so much good for the people of Rome. He knew what it was like not to feel well, so Father Rossi took a special interest in sick people. He was a frequent visitor in Rome's hospitals. He especially loved to spend time with the poor people at the Hospice of St. Galla. This was a shelter for the poor and homeless. But Father Rossi became aware of poor people who had no one to look after their spiritual needs. He noticed those who brought cattle and sheep to sell in the Roman forum. What hard lives they had. They came in the morning with their herds. Father Rossi would walk among them and stop and talk with them. When possible, he would teach them about the faith and offer them the sacrament of Reconciliation. Father Rossi's priestly ministry made a big difference in their lives.

The priest also felt deep compassion for the homeless women and girls. They wandered through the streets day and night begging. This was dangerous and very sad. The pope gave Father Rossi money to open a shelter for homeless women. It was right near the Hospice of St. Galla. Father Rossi placed the house under the protection of one of his favorite saints, Aloysius Gonzaga. The feast of St. Aloysius is June 21. Father Rossi became best known for his kindness and gentleness in confession. People formed lines near his confessional and waited patiently for their turn. He once said to a friend that the best way for a priest to reach heaven was to help people through the sacrament of Reconciliation. Another favorite assignment given him by Pope Benedict XIV was to teach courses of spiritual instruction to prison officials and state employees.
Father Rossi suffered a stroke in 1763. He never regained his health. He was able to celebrate Mass but he suffered greatly. This wonderful priest died at the age of sixty-six. It was May 23, 1764. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Leo XIII in 1881.

Once upon a time there lived a very rich king whose name was Midas. He had more gold than anyone in the whole world, but for all that, he thought it was not enough. He was never so happy as when he happened to get more gold to add to his treasure. He stored it away in great vaults underneath his palace, and many hours of each day were spent counting it over.
Now King Midas had a little daughter named Marygold. He loved her devotedly, and said: “She shall be the richest princess in all the world!”
But little Marygold cared nothing about it all. She loved her garden, her flowers and the golden sunshine more than all her father’s riches. She was a lonely little girl most of the time, for her father was so busy planning new ways to get more gold, and counting what he had, that he seldom told her stories or went for walks with her, as all fathers should do.
One day King Midas was down in his treasure room. He had locked the heavy doors and had opened up his great chests of gold. He piled it on the table and handled it as if he loved the touch of it. He let it slip through his fingers and smiled at the clink of it as if it had been sweet music. Suddenly a shadow fell over the heap of gold. Looking up, he saw a stranger dressed in shining white smiling down at him. King Midas started up in surprise. Surely he had not failed to lock the door! His treasure was not safe! But the stranger continued to smile.
“You have much gold, King Midas,” he said.
“Yes,” said the king, “but think how little this is to all the gold there is in the world!”
“What! Are you not satisfied?” asked the stranger.
“Satisfied?” said the king. “Of course I’m not. I often lie awake through the long night planning new ways to get more gold. I wish that everything I touch would turn to gold.”
“ Do you really wish for that, King Midas?”
“Of course I wish it. Nothing could make me so happy.”
“Then you shall have your wish. Tomorrow morning when the first rays of the sun fall through your window you shall have the golden touch.”
When he had finished speaking, the stranger vanished. King Midas rubbed his eyes. “I must have dreamed it,” he said, “but how happy I should be if it were only true!”
The next morning King Midas woke when the first faint light came into his room. He put out his hand and touched the covers of his bed. Nothing happened. “I knew it could not be true,” he sighed. Just at that moment the first rays of the sun came through the window. The covers on which King Midas’s hand lay became pure gold. “It’s true, it’s true!” he cried joyfully.
He sprang out of bed and ran about the room touching everything. His dressing gown, his slippers, the furniture, all became gold. He looked out of the window through Marygold’s garden. “I’ll give her a nice surprise,” he said. He went down into the garden touching all of Marygold’s flowers, and changing them to gold. “She will be so pleased,” he thought.
He went back into his room to wait for his breakfast; and took up his book which he had been reading the night before, but the minute he touched it, it was solid gold. “I can’t read it now,” he said, “but of course it is far better to have it gold.”
Just then a servant came through the door with the king’s breakfast. “How good it looks,” he said. “I’ll have the ripe, red peach first of all.”
He took the peach in his hand, but before he could taste it, it became a lump of gold. King Midas put it back on the plate. “It’s very beautiful, but I can’t eat it!” he said. He took a roll from the plate, but that, too, became gold. He took a glass of water in his hand, but that, too, became gold. “What shall I do?” he cried. “I am hungry and thirsty, I can’t eat or drink gold!”
At that moment the door was opened and in came little Marygold. She was crying bitterly, and in her hand was one of her roses.
“What’s the matter, little daughter?” said the king.
“Oh, Father! See what has happened to all my roses! They are stiff, ugly things!”
“Why, they are golden roses, child. Do you not think they are more beautiful than they were?”
“No,” she sobbed, “they do not smell sweet. They won’t grow anymore. I like roses that are alive.”
“Never mind,” said the king, “eat your breakfast now.”
But Marygold noticed that her father did not eat, and that he looked very sad. “What is the matter, Father dear?” she said, and she ran over to him. She threw her arms around him, and he kissed her. But he suddenly cried out in terror and anguish. When he touched her, her lovely little face became glittering gold, her eyes could not see, her lips could not kiss him back again, her little arms could not hold him close. She was no longer a loving, laughing little girl; she was changed to a little golden statue.
King Midas bowed his head and great sobs shook him.
“Are you happy, King Midas?” he heard a voice say. Looking up he saw the stranger standing near him.
“Happy! How can you ask? I am the most miserable man living!” said the king.
“You have the golden touch,” said the stranger. “Is that not enough?”
King Midas did not look up or answer.
“Which would you rather have, food and a cup of cold water or these lumps of gold?” said the stranger.
King Midas could not answer.
“Which would you rather have, O King—that little golden statue, or a little girl would could run, and laugh, and love you?”
“Oh, give me back my little Marygold and I’ll give up all the gold I have!” said the king. “I’ve lost all that was worth having.”
“You are wiser than you were, King Midas,” said the stranger. “Go plunge in the river which runs at the foot of your garden, then take some of its water and sprinkle whatever you wish to change back as it was.” The stranger vanished.
King Midas sprang up and ran to the river. He plunged into it, and then he dipped up a pitcher of its water and hurried back to the palace. He sprinkled it over Marygold, and the color came back into her cheeks. She opened her blue eyes again. “Why, Father!” she said. “What happened?”
With a cry of joy King Midas took her into his arms.
Never after that did King Midas care for any gold except the gold of sunshine, and the gold of little Marygold’s hair.

Love makes us patient, understanding and kind,
And we judge with the heart, not with the mind,
For as soon as LOVE enters the heart's opened door
The hatred we once saw are not there any more.

Better is a dinner of herbs where love is
Than a fatted ox and hatred with it.

Whenever you are troubled,
Put your problems in GOD's hands,
For He has faced all problems
And He will understand.

Trouble and anguish have come upon me.
But Thy commandments are my delight.

Everything is by comparison
Both the bitter and the sweet,
And it takes a bit of them
To make our Lives complete.

I closed the door to yesterday
threw away the key.
I quickly ran away
and knew that it must be.

Never must I open it
or even glimpse inside,
no more anguish or suffering,
but only life outside.

Don't look back on yesterday,
always look ahead,
moving forward in the surest way,
leading, never led.

Everything to live for,
everything to feel,
love, tears, joy and pain,
the things that make life real.

As I close the door behind me,
so definite and sure,
I open anew another chance,
even better than before.

A chance to grow and flourish,
a chance to stumble and then,
with God's help pick up myself
and go forward once again.

As I open the door to tomorrow,
I'm happy, as though I could shout!
by closing the door to yesterday,
I'm learning what life's about.

By putting my best foot forward,
moving in the surest way,
my heart won't yearn, if I never return
to the path of yesterday.

The people of Switzerland were not always free and happy as they are today. Many years ago a proud tyrant, whose name was Gessler, ruled over them, and made their lot a bitter one indeed.
One day this tyrant set up a tall pole in the public square, and put his own cap on the top of it; and then he gave orders that every man who came into the town should bow down before it. But there was one man, William Tell, who would not do this. He stood up straight with folded arms, and laughed at the swinging cap. He would not bow down to Gessler himself.
When Gessler heard of this, he was very angry. He was afraid that other men would disobey, and that soon the whole country would rebel against him. So he made up his mind to punish the bold man.
William Tell’s home was among the mountains, and he was a famous hunter. No one is all the land could shoot with bow and arrow as well as he. Gessler knew this, and so he thought of a cruel plan to make the hunter’s own skill bring him to grief. He ordered that Tell’s little boy should be made to stand up in the public square with an apple on his head; and then he bade Tell shoot the apple with one of his arrows.
Tell begged the tyrant not to have him make this test of his skill. What if the boy should move? What if the bowman’s hand should tremble? What if the arrow should not carry true?
“Will you make me kill my boy?” he said.
“Say no more,” said Gessler. “You must hit the apple with your one arrow. If you fail, my soldiers shall kill the boy before your eyes.”
Then, without another word, Tell fitted the arrow to his bow. He took aim, and let it fly. The boy stood firm and still. He was not afraid, for he had all faith in his father’s skill.
The arrow whistled through the air. It struck the apple fairly in the center, and carried it away. The people who saw it shouted with joy.
As Tell was turning away from the place, an arrow which he had hidden under his coat dropped to the ground.
“Fellow!” cried Gessler, “what mean you with this second arrow?”
“Tyrant!” was Tell’s proud answer, “this arrow was for your heart if I had hurt my child.”
And there is an old story, that not long after this, Tell did shoot the tyrant with one of his arrows, and thus he set his country free.

MAY 22
ST. RITA OF CASCIA

Rita was born in 1381 in a little Italian village. Her parents were older. They had begged God to send them a child. They brought Rita up well. Rita wanted to enter the convent when she was fifteen, but her parents decided that she should marry instead. The man they chose for Rita turned out to be a mean and unfaithful husband. He had such a violent temper that everyone in the neighborhood was afraid of him. Yet, for eighteen years, his wife patiently took all his insults. Her prayers, gentleness and goodness finally won his heart. He apologized to Rita for the way he had treated her and he returned to God.

Rita's happiness over her husband's conversion did not last long. One day, shortly after, he was murdered. Rita was shocked and heart-broken. But she forgave the murderers, and tried to make her two sons forgive them, too. She saw that the boys, instead, were determined to avenge their father's death. Rita prayed that they would die rather than commit murder. Within several months, both boys became seriously ill. Rita nursed them lovingly. During their illness, she pursuaded them to forgive, and to ask God's forgiveness for themselves. They did and both died peacefully.

Now her husband and her children were dead. Left alone in the world, Rita tried three times to enter the convent in Cascia. The rules of the convent did not permit a woman who had been married to join even if her husband had died. Rita did not give up, however. At last, the nuns made an exception for her. In the convent, Rita was outstanding for her obedience and charity. She had great devotion to the crucified Jesus. Once, while praying, she asked him to let her share some of his pain. One thorn from his crown of thorns pierced her forehead and made a sore that never healed. In fact, it grew so bad and gave off such an odor that St. Rita had to stay away from the others. She was happy to suffer to show her love for Jesus.

St. Rita died on May 22, 1457, when she was seventy-six. Like St. Jude, St. Rita is often called "Saint of the Impossible."

There once was a King who offered a prize to the artist who would paint the best picture of peace. Many artists tried. The King looked at all the pictures, but there were only two he really liked and he had to choose between them.

One picture was of a calm lake. The lake was a perfect mirror for peaceful towering mountains were all around it. Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds. All who saw this picture thought that it was a perfect picture of peace.

The other picture had mountains too. But these were rugged and bare. Above was an angry sky from which rain fell, in which lightening played. Down the side of the mountain tumbled a foaming waterfall. This did not look peaceful at all.

But when the King looked, he saw behind the waterfall a tiny bush growing in a crack in the rock. In the bush a mother bird had built her nest. There, in the midst of the rush of angry water, sat the mother bird on her nest ... perfect peace.

Which picture do you think won the prize?

The King chose the second picture.

Do you know why?

"Because," explained the King, "peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart. That is the real meaning of peace."

Two Travelers were on the road together, when a Bear suddenly appeared on the scene. Before he observed them, one made for a tree at the side of the road, and climbed up into the branches and his there. The other was not so nimble as his companion; and, as he could not escape, he threw himself on the ground and pretended to be dead. The Bear came up and sniffed all around him, but he kept perfectly still and held his breath; for they say that a bear will not touch a dead body. The Bear took him for a corpse, and went away. When the coast was clear, the Traveler in the tree came down, and asked the other what it was the Bear had whispered to him when he put his mouth to his ear. The other replied, “He told me never again to travel with a friend who deserts you at the first sign of danger.”

Misfortune tests the sincerity of friendship.

MAY 21
BLESSED EUGENE DE MAZENOD

Eugene was born in France in 1782. He became a priest in 1811. Father Eugene was sensitive to the needs of the poor and he ministered to them. He was always eager to find new ways to reach out to the young. He wanted to bring them to the love and practice of their faith. He believed in the value of parish missions. He realized that missionary priests in a parish could do so much good to reawaken in people dedication to their faith.

Father de Mazenod began a new religious order of priests and lay brothers in 1826. They were missionaries called the Oblates of Mary Immaculate. Their particular ministry was to go to people who had never heard of Jesus and his Church. Father de Mazenod and his order were courageous in answering the requests of bishops who needed their help. Bishops of North America eagerly awaited the Oblates. Bishop Ignace Bourget of Montreal was especially eager. He must have been very convincing because the founder sent several of his members. Within ten years, the Oblates had grown rapidly. They reached all of Canada and had begun to minister in the United States, too.

In 1837, Father de Mazenod was consecrated bishop of Marseilles, France. He became known for his loyalty and love for the pope. He was also a gifted organizer and educator. Bishop de Mazen-od remained superior of his order until he died in 1861.

The great work Bishop de Mazenod started continues today through the Oblate missionaries around the world. They staff mission posts, parishes and universities.

"For God so loved the world that He gave
His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth
on Him should not perish, but have eternal life."
.........John 3: 16.

The heart of the Father looked down on fallen man,
He saw the result of sin in his beautiful creation,
So tenderly with love He knew salvation's plan,
He would send His only Son to save every tribe and Nation.

Within the fullness of time Jesus came as God's only Son,
Conceived by the Holy Spirit from above,
He alone could take away sin and bring men back to God again;
He would be our Savior, the perfect Lamb of God sent in love.

He walked among men, saved, delivered, and healed;
There was no other greater than He,
His grace He freely gave and salvation revealed,
His love was the greatest as He died on Calvary's tree.

The power of the cross still saves those who are lost;
His blood will never lose it's wondrous power,
On the old rugged cross....He paid the great cost,
He is our Redeemer, our Savior and strong tower.

Jesus is the gift of love who was given for all men;
His love will set the vilest sinner free,
He will be with you until the end as your dearest Friend,
A gift of love, lifted above, brought hope that day at Calvary.

"The blood of Jesus will never lose it's power."
JESUS --The greatest gift of all......John 3:16

MAY 20
ST. BERNARDINE OF SIENA

St. Bernardine of Siena was born in 1380 in a town near Siena, Italy. He was the son of an Italian governor. His parents died when he was seven. His relatives loved him as if he were their own. They also gave him a good education. He grew up to be a tall, handsome boy. He was so much fun that his friends loved to be with him. Yet they knew better than to use any dirty words when he was around. He would not put up with it. Twice when a man tried to lead him into sin, Bernardine punched him and sent him on his way.

The saint had a special love for the Blessed Mother. She was the one who kept him pure. Even when he was a teenager, Bernardine would pray to her as a child talks with his mother.

Bernardine was tender hearted. He felt great pity for the poor. Once, his aunt had no extra food to give a beggar. The boy cried, "I'd rather go without food myself than leave that poor man with none." When a plague struck the area in 1400, Bernardine and his friends volunteered their services at the hospital. They helped the sick and dying day and night for six weeks until the plague had ended.

Bernardine joined the Franciscan order when he was twenty-two. He became a priest. After several years, he was assigned to go to towns and cities to preach. The people needed to be reminded about the love of Jesus. In those days, bad habits were ruining both young and old people. "How can I save these people by myself?" Bernardine asked the Lord in prayer. "With what weapons can I fight the devil?" And God answered, "My Holy Name will be enough for you." So Bernardine spread devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus. He used this Name a great many times in every sermon. He asked people to print Jesus' Name over the gates of their cities, over their doorways-everywhere. Through devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus and devotion to the Blessed Mother, Bernardine brought thousands of people from all over Italy back to the Church.
St. Bernardine spent forty-two years of his life as a Franciscan. He died at the age of sixty-four in Aquila, Italy. It was May 20, 1444. He was declared a saint just six years later, in 1450, by Pope Nicholas V.

If I could catch a rainbow
I would do it Just for you
And share with you Its beauty
On the days You're feeling blue

If I could build a mountain
You could call Your very own
A place to find serenity
A place to be alone

If I could Take your troubles
I would toss them In the sea
But all these things I'm finding
Are impossible for me

I cannot build a mountain
Or catch a rainbow fair
But let me be What I know best
A friend That's always there

MAY 18
ST. JOHN I

John I was a priest of Rome. He became pope after the death of Pope St. Hormisdas in 523. At that time, Italy's ruler, Theodoric the Goth, was an Arian. (The Arians did not believe that Jesus is God.) Theodoric let Catholics alone at the beginning of his reign. Later, however, he changed and became arrogant and suspicious of everyone. He imagined there was a conspiracy against him. After a while, he believed the whole world was out to get his throne and his power. The one person who most certainly did not want either was the pope.

Theodoric was trying to get Pope John involved in his political problems. The emperor was having trouble with Emperor Justin I of Constantinople. It had been reported that Justin was being too hard on the Arians in the east. Theodoric sent a delegation to negotiate with Justin. The delegation was headed by Pope John I. Emperor Justin received the pope and his companions with rejoicing. Justin was very willing to change his harsh policy. Pope John's mission went very well. But Emperor Theodoric was not pleased. He imagined that Pope John and Justin I were against him. The pope was returning to Rome and got as far as Ravenna, Theodoric's capital. Pope John was kidnapped and thrown into prison by Theodoric's soldiers. There the pope died of thirst and starvation in 526.

MAY 19
ST. CELESTINE V

Peter di Morone was the eleventh of twelve children. He was born around 1210 in Isernia, Italy. His father died when he was small. The family was poor, but Peter's mother raised her children with great love. She sent Peter to school because he showed such promise and an eagerness to learn. Once she asked as usual, "Which one of you is going to become a saint?" Little Peter who was to become Pope Celestine answered with all his heart, "Me, Mama! I'll become a saint!" And he did. But it wasn't easy.

When he was twenty, Peter became a hermit. He spent his days praying, reading the Bible and doing his work. Other hermits kept coming to him and asking him to guide them. Eventually, he started a new order of monks.

When Peter was eighty-four years of age, he was made pope. It came about in a very unusual way. For two years there had been no pope. This was because the cardinals could not agree on whom to choose. Peter sent them a message. He warned them to decide quickly, because God was not pleased with the long delay. The cardinals did as the monk said. Then and there, they chose Peter the hermit to be pope! The poor man wept when he heard the news. He accepted sadly and took the name Celestine V.
He was pope only about five months. Because he was so humble and simple, people took advantage of him. He could not say "no" to anyone. Soon there was great confusion. Pope Celestine felt very responsible for all the trouble. He decided that the best thing he could do for the Church was give up his position. He did so. He asked forgiveness for not having governed the Church well.

All St. Celestine wanted was to live in one of his monasteries in peace. But the new pope, Boniface VIII, thought it would be safer to keep him hidden in a small room in one of the Roman palaces. St. Celestine spent the last ten months of his life in a plain cell-like room. But he became his cheerful self again. "All you wanted was a cell, Peter," he would repeat to himself. "Well, you've got it." He died on May 19, 1296. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Clement VI in 1313.

There are so many things in this life,
that makes our tears to fall.
But we can always say to ourselves,
it will get better after all!

No matter what our worries may be,
we know they will soon be gone.
But others will be there to take their place,
until we leave here and move on!

But until then we can know,
life will always give us pain.
But, if we ask Jesus into our heart,
You know we have Heaven to gain!

We have many days filled with joy.
Then just as many days of despair.
We are often telling someone,
It just doesn't seem to be fair!

Just keep going and do your best,
to cheer up and calm your fears.
For joy will come in the morning,
When Jesus comes - that's after the tears!

Live for the Lord and be joyful
While here on this earth we stay.
Jesus will come some glad morning
to lift us up and take us away!

We'll live in that beautiful city
where the streets are paved with gold.
There it's fully lighted by His Glory.
It's beauty has never been told!

In that place there'll only be joy.
No sorrow or pain or fears.
When we get up to Heaven.
That will be after the tears!

Damon and Pythias

Damon and Pythias had been the best of friends since childhood. Each trusted the other like a brother, and each knew in his heart there was nothing he would not do for his friend. Eventually the time came for them to prove the depth of their devotion. It happened this way.
Dionysius, the ruler of Syracuse, grew annoyed when he heard about the kind of speeches Pythias was giving. The young scholar was telling the public that no man should have unlimited power over another, and that absolute tyrants were unjust kings. In a fit of rage, Dionysius summoned Pythias and his friend.
“Who do you think you are, spreading unrest among the people?” he demanded.
“I spread only the truth,” Pythias answered. “There can be nothing wrong with that.”
“And does your truth hold that kings have too much power and that their laws are not good for their subjects?”
“If a king has seized power without permission of the people, then that is what I say.”
“This kind of talk is treason,” Dionysius shouted. “You are conspiring to overthrow me. Retract what you’ve said, or face the consequences.”
“I will retract nothing,” Pythias answered.
“Then you will die. Do you have any last requests?”
“Yes. Let me go home just long enough to say goodbye to my wife and children and to put my household in order.”
“I see you not only think I’m unjust, you think I’m stupid as well,” Dionysius laughed scornfully. “If I let you leave Syracuse, I have no doubt I will never see you again.”
“I will give you a pledge,” Pythias said.
“What kind of pledge could you possibly give to make me think you will ever return?” Dionysius demanded.
At that instant Damon, who had stood quietly beside his friend, stepped forward.
“I will be his pledge,” he said. “Keep me here in Syracuse, as your prisoner, until Pythias returns. Our friendship is well known to you. You can be sure Pythias will return so long as you hold me.”
Dionysius studied the two friends silently. “Very well,” he said at last. “But if you are willing to take the place of your friend, you must be willing to accept his sentence if he breaks his promise. If Pythias does not return to Syracuse, you will die in his place.”
“He will keep his word,” Damon replied. “I have no doubt of that.”
Pythias was allowed to go free for a time, and Damon was thrown into prison. After several days, when Pythias failed to reappear, Dionysius’s curiosity got the better of him, and he went to the prison to see if Damon was yet sorry he had made such a bargain.
“Your time is almost up,” the ruler of Syracuse sneered. “It will be useless to beg for mercy. You were a fool to rely on your friend’s promise. Did you really think he would sacrifice his life for you or anyone else?”
“He has merely been delayed,” Damon answered steadily. “The winds have kept him from sailing, or perhaps he has met with some accident on the road. But if it is humanly possible, he will be here on time. I am as confident of his virtue as I am of my own existence.”
Dionysius was startled at the prisoner’s confidence. “We shall soon see,” he said, and left Damon in his cell.
The fatal day arrived. Damon was brought from prison and led before the executioner. Dionysius greeted him with a smug smile.
“It seems your friend has not turned up,” he laughed. “What do you think of him now?”
“He is my friend,” Damon answered. “I trust him.”
Even as he spoke, the doors flew open, and Pythias staggered into the room. He was pale and bruised and half speechless from exhaustion. He rushed to the arms of his friend.
“You are safe, praise the gods,” he gasped. “It seemed as though the fates were conspiring against us. My ship was wrecked in a storm, and then bandits attacked me on the road. But I refused to give up hope, and at last I’ve made it back in time. I am ready to receive my sentence of death.”
Dionysius heard his words with astonishment. His eyes and his heart were opened. It was impossible for him to resist the power of such constancy.
“The sentence is revoked,” he declared. “I never believed that such faith and loyalty could exist in friendship. You have shown me how wrong I was, and it is only right that you be rewarded with your freedom. But I ask that in return you do me one great service.”
“What service do you mean?” the friends asked.
“Teach me how to be part of so worthy a friendship.”

MAY 18
ST. JOHN I

John I was a priest of Rome. He became pope after the death of Pope St. Hormisdas in 523. At that time, Italy's ruler, Theodoric the Goth, was an Arian. (The Arians did not believe that Jesus is God.) Theodoric let Catholics alone at the beginning of his reign. Later, however, he changed and became arrogant and suspicious of everyone. He imagined there was a conspiracy against him. After a while, he believed the whole world was out to get his throne and his power. The one person who most certainly did not want either was the pope.

Theodoric was trying to get Pope John involved in his political problems. The emperor was having trouble with Emperor Justin I of Constantinople. It had been reported that Justin was being too hard on the Arians in the east. Theodoric sent a delegation to negotiate with Justin. The delegation was headed by Pope John I. Emperor Justin received the pope and his companions with rejoicing. Justin was very willing to change his harsh policy. Pope John's mission went very well. But Emperor Theodoric was not pleased. He imagined that Pope John and Justin I were against him. The pope was returning to Rome and got as far as Ravenna, Theodoric's capital. Pope John was kidnapped and thrown into prison by Theodoric's soldiers. There the pope died of thirst and starvation in 526.

Long ago, England was ruled by a king named Canute. Like many leaders and men of power, Canute was surrounded by people who were always praising him. Every time he walked into a room, the flattery began.
“You are the greatest man that ever lived,” one would say.
“O king, there can never be another as mighty as you,” another would insist.
“Your highness, there is nothing you cannot do,” someone would smile.
“Great Canute, you are the monarch of all,” another would sing. “Nothing in this world dares to disobey you.”
The king was a man of sense, and he grew tired of hearing such foolish speeches.
One day he was walking by the seashore, and his officers and courtiers were with him, praising him as usual. Canute decided to teach them a lesson.
“So you say I am the greatest man in the world?” he asked them.
“O king,” they cried, “there never has been anyone as mighty as you, and there never will be anyone so great, ever again!”
“And you say all things obey me?” Canute asked.
“Absolutely!” they said. “The world bows before you, and gives you honor.”
“I see,” the king answered. “In that case, bring me my chair, and we will go down to the water.”
“At once, your majesty!” They scrambled to carry his royal chair over the sands.
“Bring it closer to the sea,” Canute called. “Put it right here, right at the water’s edge.” He sat down and surveyed the ocean before him. “I notice the tide is coming in. Do you think it will stop if I give the command?”
His officers were puzzled, but they did not dare say no. “Give the order, O great king, and it will obey,” one of them assured him.
“Very well. Sea,” cried Canute, “I command you to come no further! Waves, stop your rolling! Surf, stop your pounding! Do not dare touch my feet!”
He waited a moment, quietly, and a tiny wave rushed up the sand and lapped at his feet.
“How dare you!” Canute shouted. “Ocean, turn back now! I have ordered you to retreat before me, and now you must obey! Go back!”
And in answer another wave swept forward and curled around the king’s feet. The tide came in, just as it always did. The water rose higher and higher. It came up around the king’s chair, and wet not only his feet, but also his robe. His officers stood about him, alarmed, and wondering whether he was not mad.
“Well, my friends,” Canute said, “it seems I do not have quite so much power as you would have me believe. Perhaps you have learned something today. Perhaps now you will remember there is only one King who is all-powerful, and it is he who rules the sea, and holds the ocean in the hollow of his hand. I suggest you reserve your praises for him.”
The royal officers and courtiers hung their heads and looked foolish. And some say Canute took off his crown soon afterward, and never wore it again

ST. PASCHAL BAYLON

Paschal, a Spanish saint, was born in 1540. From the time he was seven, he worked as a shepherd. He never had the opportunity to go to school. Yet he taught himself to read and write. He did this mainly by asking everyone he met to help him. This he did so that he could read from religious books. He used to whisper prayers often during the day as he took care of the sheep.

      When he was twenty-four, the shepherd became a Franciscan brother. His companions liked him. Paschal was easy to get along with and kind. The community noticed that he often did the most unpleasant and hardest chores. He practiced penances that were even more strict than the rule required. Yet he was a happy person. When he had been a shepherd, he had wished he could be in church praying to Jesus. But he couldn't. Now he could. He loved to keep the Lord company in the Blessed Sacrament. He was also honored to be a server at Mass.

      St. Paschal's two great loves were the Holy Eucharist and the Blessed Mother. Every day Paschal prayed the Rosary with great love. He also wrote beautiful prayers to our Heavenly Mother.

      Out of some scraps of paper, St. Paschal made himself a little notebook. In it, he wrote down some beautiful thoughts and prayers. After he died, his superior showed the little book to the local archbishop. He read the book and said, "These simple souls are stealing heaven from us!"

      Paschal died in 1592 at the age of fifty-two. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Alexander VIII in 1690.

In this day I choose living not just for the sake of passing time.

I choose to take advantage of the milliseconds between my breath and my sigh.

In this day I will grasp hold of the moments I lost so many times before as words rolled off my tongue penetrating the ears and hearts of those whom I wanted to hurt and did.

In this day I will make up for time lost by living between my thoughts and my action.

I will live up to my potential, which through God's Grace is unlimited.

In this day I will help someone else find the greatest secret of all...While we spend our lives in pursuit of success and happiness, we have all that we will ever need from the moment of conception until our last breath.

In this day I will acknowledge that I am a magnificent creation capable of the greatest accomplishments. I am one of a kind. Never before in the history of human existence and never again will there be another me. I have a purpose, a mission and with that a responsibility to fulfill those goals. The key to success is in "knowing" and "believing" that I can, then purposefully taking action. The "knowing" is the small voice you hear deep within that gives direction. It sparks the dreams and softens the indignant blows that life throws at us. It is the spirit of our being connected to the Great Power. It never goes away although many spend a lifetime trying to block it out.

"Believing" comes once we have accepted that self esteem is not an ego trip but a verification that you are a living miracle created by God. Although we are all capable of grand accomplishments that can change the world, we all succeed at various levels none less important than the next. Some listen more intently to the voice and act upon those beliefs. Others cautiously follow taking life step by step. Even those who do not heed the call serve a purpose. They often serve as the best friend, the parent, the neighbor who ignites the spark in others bound for greater goals.

In this day I will celebrate as if it was my birthday and 24 hours was my gift. I will treasure the sunrise and save the light in my hand for darkened days. I will fill my lungs to capacity with the sweet smell of life and consume the colors that surround me like a meal fit for a king. I will taste the reds and yellows of the flowers and bathe in the blues and greens of the sky and grass. At the end of the day in the darkest hours my soul will light the way to rest in the satisfaction of knowing I did not waste a morsel.

Then in my last day on this earth I will leave filled with joy to a better place knowing that I have served my purpose and completed my mission. I will leave behind my energy that will disperse into every rock and tree and molecule. I will become a part of the color, the light, the breath of life for others to consume. I will not wither to the ground as failure and serve as a pathway. I will rise with the sun to bring joy forever to those who will dream after me. I am important. I am successful. I am God's creation! I am alive!

The following are actual excerpts from classified sections of city newspapers:

Illiterate? Write today for free help.

Auto Repair Service. Free pick-up and delivery. Try us once, you'll never go anywhere else again.

Man wanted to work in dynamite factory. Must be willing to travel.

Stock up and save. Limit: one.

Semi-Annual after-Christmas Sale.

3-year old teacher needed for pre-school. Experience preferred.

Mixing bowl set designed to please a cook with round bottom for efficient beating.

Girl wanted to assist magician in cutting-off-head illusion. Blue Cross and salary.

Now is your chance to have your ears pierced and get an extra pair to take home, too.

We do not tear your clothing with machinery. We do it carefully by hand.

Great Dames for sale.

Tired of cleaning yourself. Let me do it.

Vacation Special: have your home exterminated.

For Rent: 6-room hated apartment.

Man, honest. Will take anything.

Used Cars: Why go elsewhere to be cheated. Come here first.

Christmas tag-sale. Handmade gifts for the hard-to-find person.

Wanted: Hair cutter. Excellent growth potential.

Wanted. Man to take care of cow that does not smoke or drink.

And now, the Superstore-unequaled in size, unmatched in variety, unrivaled inconvenience.

TODAY I WILL NOT STRIKE BACK:
If someone is rude, if someone is impatient, if someone is unkind... I will not respond in a like manner.

TODAY I WILL ASK GOD TO BLESS MY "ENEMY:"
If I come across someone who treats me harshly or unfairly, I will quietly ask GOD to bless that individual. I understand the "enemy" could be a family member, neighbor, co-worker or stranger.

TODAY I WILL BE CAREFUL ABOUT WHAT I SAY:
I will carefully choose and guard my words being certain that I do not spread gossip.

TODAY I WILL GO THE EXTRA MILE:
I will find ways to help share the burden of another person.

TODAY I WILL FORGIVE:
I will forgive any hurts or injuries that come my way.

TODAY I WILL DO SOMETHING NICE FOR SOMEONE, BUT I WILL NOT DO IT SECRETLY:
I will reach out anonymously and bless the life of another.

TODAY I WILL TREAT OTHERS THE WAY I WISH TO BE TREATED:
I will practice the golden rule - "Do unto others as I would have them do unto me" - with everyone I encounter.

TODAY I WILL RAISE THE SPIRITS OF SOMEONE WHO IS DISCOURAGED:
My smile, my words, my expression of support, can make the difference to someone who is wrestling with life.

TODAY I WILL NURTURE MY BODY:
I will eat less; I will eat only healthy foods. I will thank GOD for my body.

TODAY I WILL GROW SPIRITUALLY:
I will spend a little more time in prayer today: I will begin reading something spiritual or inspirational today; I will find a quiet place (at some point during this day) and listen to GOD's voice!!!

"But since we belong to the day, let us be self controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and hope of salvation as a helmet."
1 Thessalonians 5:8

HAVE A NICE DAY TO ALL!

ST. UBALD

This saint lived in twelfth-century Italy. He was an orphan raised by his uncle, a bishop. Ubald was given a good education. When he finished his schooling, he had the chance to marry. But he became a priest instead. Eventually, the pope made him bishop of Gubbio, the city of his birth.

St. Ubald became well known for his mild and patient disposition. One time, for example, a worker was repairing the city wall. He badly damaged the bishop's vineyard. The saint gently pointed it out to him. The workman must have been very tired. He probably did not even recognize the bishop. He shoved Bishop Ubald so hard that he fell into a pile of wet cement. He was covered with it. He got up, cleaned himself off and went into the house. Some people saw the whole thing and demanded that the worker be brought to court. Bishop Ubald appeared in the courtroom and obtained the man's freedom.

The holy bishop loved peace and he had the courage it takes to keep it. Once, when the people of Gubbio were fighting in the streets, he threw himself between the two angry crowds. He seemed unafraid of the swords clashing and the rocks flying. Suddenly he fell to the ground. The people stopped fighting at once. They thought the bishop had been killed. But he got up. He showed them he was not even hurt. The people thanked God. They stopped fighting and went home.

Another time, Emperor Frederick Barbarossa was on his way to attack Gubbio. St. Ubald did not wait for him and his army to come to the city. He went out on the road to talk to him. No one knows what he said. All they know is that he convinced the emperor to leave Gubbio alone.

The saint had a great amount of physical pain. Yet he never talked about it. On Easter Sunday, 1160, he rose for Mass. He gave a beautiful sermon and blessed the people. Then he had to go back to bed. He was not able to get up again. He died on May 16, 1160. All the people came to pay their respects. They cried and prayed to St. Ubald to take care of them from heaven.

BTW is By The Way,
And Go Ahead is now GA;
Laughing Out Loud is LOL,
THTT, Too Hard To Tell.

In My Humble Opinion, IMHO,
If you're not humble, IMO;
God Only Knows is GOK,
Thanks In Advance is TIA.

Be Right Back is BRB,
Till Next Time is TNT;
As Far As I Know, AFAIK,
MMD is Make My Day.

On The Other Hand, OTOH,
A =^..^= will give you Kitty Face;
HaHa Only Kidding, HHOK.

Type :-) or ) which will provide
A Happy Face (it's on its side)
Type 8-) or B-) for Glasses, too,
If you've a Beard, a :-)> will do.

Type ;-) to add a Wink with Smile,
Or :-( if Frowns are more your style;
And now you know the ABC's
To type Shorthand Computerese!

If you're too open minded, your brains will fall out.

Age is a very high price to pay for maturity.

Going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than going to a garage makes you a mechanic.

Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity.

If you must choose between two evils, pick the one you've never tried before.

My idea of housework is to sweep the room with a glance.

Not one shred of evidence supports the notion that life is serious.

It is easier to get forgiveness than permission.

For every action, there is an equal and opposite government program.

If you look like your passport picture, you probably need the trip.

Bills travel through the mail at twice the speed of checks.

A conscience is what hurts when all your other parts feel so good.

Eat well, stay fit, die anyway.

Men are from earth. Women are from earth. Deal with it.

No husband has ever been shot while doing the dishes.

A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand.

Middle age is when broadness of the mind and narrowness of the waist change places.

Opportunities always look bigger going than coming.

Junk is something you've kept for years and throw away three weeks before you need it.

There is always one more imbecile than you counted on.

Experience is a wonderful thing. It enables you to recognize a mistake when you make it again.

By the time you can make ends meet, they move the ends.

Thou shalt not weigh more than thy refrigerator.

Someone who thinks logically provides a nice contrast to the real world.

Blessed are they who can laugh at themselves for they shall never cease to be amused.

Once upon a time, a perfect man and a perfect woman met. After a perfect courtship, they had a perfect wedding. Their life together was, of course, perfect. One snowy, stormy Christmas Eve, this perfect couple was driving their perfect car (a Grand Caravan) along a winding road, when they noticed someone at the side of the road in distress. Being the perfect couple, they stopped to help. There stood Santa Claus with a huge bundle of toys. Not wanting to disappoint any children on the eve of Christmas, the perfect couple loaded Santa and his toys into their vehicle. Soon they were driving along delivering toys. Unfortunately, the driving conditions deteriorated and the perfect couple and Santa Claus had an accident. Only one of them survived the accident. The mind numbing question is: Who was the survivor?

Scroll down for the answer...

The perfect woman survived. She's the only one who really existed in the first place. Everyone knows there is no Santa Claus and there is no such thing as a perfect man. Women stop reading here. That is the end of the joke.

Men keep'a scrollin'...

So, if there is no perfect man and no Santa Claus, the perfect woman must have been driving. And that explains why there was a car accident. By the way, if you're a woman and you're reading this, this illustrates another point: Women never listen, either.

Memo from Director General to Manager:

Today at 11 o'clock there will be a total eclipse of the sun. This is when the sun disappears behind the moon for two minutes. As this is something that cannot be seen every day, time will be allowed for employees to view the eclipse in the car park. Staff should meet in the car park at ten to eleven, when I will deliver a short speech introducing the eclipse, and giving some background information. Safety goggles will be made available at a small cost.

Memo from Manager to Department Head:

Today at ten to eleven, all staff should meet in the car park. This will be followed by a total eclipse of the sun, which will disappear for two minutes. For a moderate cost, this will be made safe with goggles. The Director General will deliver a short speech beforehand to give us all some background information. This is not something that can be seen every day.

Memo from Department Head to Floor Manager:

The Director General will today deliver a short speech to make the sun disappear for two minutes in the eclipse. This is something that cannot be seen every day, so staff will meet in the car park at ten or eleven. This will be safe, if you pay a moderate cost.

Memo From Floor Manager to Supervisor:

Ten or eleven staff are to go to the car park, where the Director General will eclipse the sun for two minutes. This doesn't happen every day. It will be safe, but it will cost you.

Memo from Supervisor to staff:

Some staff will go to the car park today to see the Director general disappear. It is a pity this doesn't happen every day.

BACHELOR:
1) A guy who has avoided the opportunity to make some woman miserable.
2) A guy who is footloose and fiancee-free.
3) A man who never makes the same mistake once.
4) A nice guy who has cheated some nice girl out of her alimony.
5) A person who believes in life, liberty, and the happiness of pursuit.
6) The only man who has never told his wife a lie.

BRIDE: A woman with a fine prospect of happiness behind her.

COMPROMISE: An amiable arrangement between husband and wife whereby they agree to let her have her own way.

DIPLOMAT: A man who can convince his wife she would look fat in a fur coat.

GENTLEMAN:
1) A husband who steadies the stepladder so that his wife will not fall while she paints the ceiling.
2) A man who, when his wife drops her knitting, kicks it over to her so that she can easily pick it up.

HOUSEWORK: What the wife does that nobody notices until she doesn't do it.

HUSBAND:
1) A man who gives up privileges he never realized he had.
2) A person who is the boss of his house and has his wife's permission to say so.

JOINT CHECKING ACCOUNT: A handy little device which permits the wife to beat the husband to the draw.

LOVE: An obsessive delusion that is cured by marriage.

MISS: A title with which we brand unmarried women to indicate that they are in the market.

MISTRESS: Something between a mister and a mattress.

MOTHER-IN-LAW: A woman who destroys her son-in-law's peace of mind by giving him a piece of hers.

MRS.: A job title involving heavy duties, light earnings, and no recognition.

SPOUSE: Someone who will stand by you through all the trouble you wouldn't have had if you'd stayed single in the first place.

WIFE: A mate who is forever complaining about not having anything to wear at the very same time that she complains about not having enough room in the closet.

I will try to figure out why I "really" need 12 e-mail addresses.

I will stop sending e-mail to my husband / wife. A phone call every now and then would be appreciated

I resolve to work with neglected children -- my own.

I will answer my snail mail with the same enthusiasm with which I answer my e-mail.

I will stop sending e-mail, ICQ, Instant Messages and be on the phone at the same time with the same person.

I resolve to back up my 12 GB hard drive daily... well, once a week... okay, monthly then... or maybe... at least once a year.

I will spend less than one hour a day on the Internet. This, of course, will be hard to estimate since I'm not a clock watcher.

I will stop checking my e-mail at 3:00 AM in the morning... 4:30 AM is much more practical since my friends overseas already had time to answer me by then.

When I hear a funny joke I will not reply, "LOL... LOL!"

I will read the manual... just as soon as I can find it.

I will think of a password other than "password."

I resolve... I resolve to... I resolve to, uh... I resolve to, uh, get my, er... I resolve to, uh, get my, er, off-line work done, too!

Symptoms you're addicted to the Internet:

You kiss your girlfriend's home page.

Your bookmark menu takes 15 minutes to scroll from top to bottom.

Your eyeglasses have a web site burned in on them.

You find yourself brainstorming for new subjects to search.

You refuse to go to a vacation spot with no electricity and no phone lines.

You finally do take that vacation, but only after buying a cellular modem and a laptop.

You spend half of the plane trip with your laptop on your lap... and your child in the overhead compartment.

All your daydreaming is preoccupied with getting a faster connection to the net: ...ISDN... cable modem... T1... T3.

You dream in HTML.

You refer to going to the bathroom as downloading.

Your heart races faster and beats irregularly each time you see a new WWW site address in print or on TV, even though you've never had heart problems before.

You step out of your room and realize that your parents have moved and you don't have a clue when it happened.

You turn on your intercom when leaving the room so you can hear if new e-mail arrives.

You refer to all of your friends with an @ in their names.

When looking at a pageful of someone else's links, you notice all of them are already highlighted in purple.

Your dog has his own home page.

Your husband tells you he's had the beard for 2 months.

You can't call your mother... she doesn't have a modem.

Your wife says communication is important in a marriage... so you buy another computer and install a second phone line so the two of you can chat.

If you messed up your life, you could press "Alt, Ctrl, Delete" and start all over!

To get your daily exercise, just click on "run"!

If you needed a break from life, click on "suspend". Hit "any key" to continue life when ready.

To get even with the neighbors, turn up the sound blaster.

To "add/remove" someone in your life, click settings and control panel.

To improve your appearance, just adjust the display settings.

If life gets too noisy, turn off the speakers.

When you lose your car keys, click on "find".

"Help" with the chores is just a click away.

You wouldn't need auto insurance. You'd use your diskette to recover from a crash.

We could click on "send" and the kids would go to bed immediately.

To feel like a new person, click on "refresh".

Click on "close" to shut up the kids and spouse.

To undo a mistake, click on "back".

Is your wardrobe getting old? Click "update".

If you don't like cleaning the litter box, click on "delete".

MARKETING: You are ambitious yet stupid. You chose a marketing degree to avoid having to study in college, concentrating instead on drinking and socializing which is pretty much what your job responsibilities are now. Least compatible with Sales.

SALES: Laziest of all signs, often referred to as "marketing without a degree." You are also self centered and paranoid. Unless someone calls you and begs you to take their money, you like to avoid contact with customers so you can "concentrate on the big picture." You seek admiration for your golf game throughout your life.

TECHNOLOGY: Unable to control anything in your personal life, you are instead content to completely control everything that happens at your workplace. Often even YOU don't understand what you are saying but who the heck can tell. It is written that Geeks shall inherit the Earth.

ENGINEERING: One of only two signs that actually studied in school. It is said that ninety percent of all Personal Ads are placed by engineers. You can be happy with yourself; your office is full of all the latest "ergodynamic" gadgets. However, we all know what is really causing your "carpal tunnel syndrome."

ACCOUNTING: The only other sign that studied in school. You are mostly immune from office politics. You are the most feared person in the organization; combined with your extreme organizational traits, the majority of rumors concerning you say that you are completely insane. Oh, and usually the first to be incarcerated.

HUMAN RESOURCES: Ironically, given your access to confidential information, you tend to be the biggest gossip within the organization. Possibly the only other person that does less work than marketing, you are unable to return any calls today because you have to get a haircut, have lunch AND then mail a letter.

MANAGEMENT/MIDDLE MANAGEMENT: Catty, cut-throat, yet completely spineless, you are destined to remain at your current job for the rest of your life. Unable to make a single decision you tend to measure your worth by the number of meetings you can schedule for yourself. Best suited to marry other "Middle Managers" as everyone in you social circle is a "Middle Manager."

SENIOR MANAGEMENT: See above - Same sign, different title.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: Bright, cheery, positive, you are a fifty cent cab ride from taking your own life. As children very few of you asked your parents for a little cubicle for your room and a headset so you could pretend to play "Customer Service." Continually passed over for promotions, your best bet is to sleep with your manager.

CONSULTANT: Lacking any specific knowledge, you use acronyms to avoid revealing your utter lack of experience. You have convinced yourself that your "skills" are in demand, and that you could get a higher paying job with any other organization in a heartbeat. You will spend an eternity contemplating these career opportunities without ever taking direct action.

RECRUITER, "HEADHUNTER": As a "person" that profits from the success of others, you are disdained by most people who actually work for a living. Paid on commission and susceptible to alcoholism, your ulcers and frequent heart attacks correspond directly with fluctuations in the stock market.

PARTNER, PRESIDENT, CEO: You are brilliant or lucky. Your inability to figure out complex systems such as the fax machine suggest the latter.

COMPETITIVE SALARY
We remain competitive by paying less than our competitors.

JOIN OUR FAST-PACED TEAM
We have no time to train you.

CASUAL WORK ATMOSPHERE
We don't pay enough to expect that you'll dress up; well, a couple of the real daring guys wear earrings.

MUST BE DEADLINE ORIENTED
You'll be six months behind schedule on your first day.

SOME OVERTIME REQUIRED
Some time each night and some time each weekend.

DUTIES WILL VARY
Anyone in the office can boss you around.

MUST HAVE AN EYE FOR DETAIL
We have no quality control.

CAREER-MINDED
Female Applicants must be childless (and remain that way).

APPLY IN PERSON
If you're old, fat or ugly you'll be told the position has been filled.

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE
We've filled the job; our call for resumes is just a legal formality.

SEEKING CANDIDATES WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF EXPERIENCE
You'll need it to replace three people who just left.

PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS A MUST
You're walking into a company in perpetual chaos.

REQUIRES TEAM LEADERSHIP SKILLS
You'll have the responsibilities of a manager, without the pay or respect.

GOOD COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Management communicates, you listen, figure out what they want and do it.

Picture it: rural area, Sunday morning, church is packed and the devil decides to pay a visit.

The doors burst open, and a large black cloud rolls in with the devil in its midst. People jump out of the pews and run outdoors, screaming -- all except for two. One is the Pastor, the other is an elderly farmer.

Satan is a bit perplexed. He points to the Pastor and says, "You! I can understand why you didn't run away, you are in your Lord's house, you preach against me everyday and you aren't afraid of me. But YOU (pointing to the farmer), why didn't you run out scared like everyone else?"

The farmer crosses one leg over the other and drawls, "Why, I'm surprised you don't recognize me... I've been married to your sister for 36 years!"

To ensure that you have a good time on your trip to Australia, your team members have planned and developed a special itinerary to fill the time during your leisure hours. Agenda follows:

Day 1: The "10 Deadliest Snakes" Fall Tour. You and a guest will be escorted through the outback and provided with the opportunity to handle and examine each of the world's 10 most deadly snakes.

Day 2: The "Great White Encounter." You and your tour guide will take a small boat to the Great Barrier Reef, where you will be able to dive into the chum-laden water and experience the beauty of the Great White shark.

Day 3: The Aboriginal "Festival of Spears." You will be the honored guest of a small aboriginal village as they celebrate the subjugation of the aboriginal race by the white man, with free liquor and a special weapons exhibition.

Day 4: The "Crocodile Dundee" Petting Zoo. You will be able to come up-close and personal with the occasionally harmless salt-water crocodiles of the Australian coast. Lucky audience members are asked to participate in a croc wrestling exhibition.

Day 5: "Those Marvelous Morays." This tour will once again return you to the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, where you will be allowed to hand feed special finger-shaped sausages to the wild eels of Stubby Hand Reef.
We hope you will enjoy your trip!

Your loyal and loving employees.

Recipe: A series of step-by-step instructions for preparing ingredients you forgot to buy, in utensils you don't own, to make a dish the dog won't eat.

Tongue: A variety of meat, rarely served because it clearly crosses the line between a cut of beef and a piece of dead cow.

Yogurt: Semi-solid dairy product made from partially evaporated and fermented milk. Yogurt is one of only three foods that taste exactly the same as they sound. The other two are goulash and squid.

Porridge: Thick oatmeal rarely found on American tables since children were granted the right to sue their parents. The name is an amalgamation of the words "Putrid," "hORRId," and "sluDGE."

Preheat: To turn on the heat in an oven for a period of time before cooking a dish, so that the fingers may be burned not only when the food is removed, but when it is put in the oven.

Oven: Compact home incinerator used for disposing of bulky pieces of meat and poultry.

Microwave Oven: Space-age kitchen appliance that uses the principle of radar to locate and immediately destroy any food placed within the cooking compartment.

Calorie: Basic measure of the amount of rationalization offered by the average individual prior to taking a second helping of a particular food.

In a Spanish computer class ...

A Spanish teacher was explaining to her class that in Spanish, unlike English, nouns are designated as either masculine or feminine. "House" for instance,
is feminine: "la casa." "Pencil," however, is masculine: "el lapiz."

A student asked, "What gender is 'computer'?"

Instead of giving the answer, the teacher split the class into two groups, male
and female, and asked them to decide for themselves whether "computer"
should be a masculine or a feminine noun.

Each group was asked to give four reasons for its recommendation.

The men's group decided that "computer" should definitely be of the Feminine gender ("la computadora"), because:

No one but their creator understands their internal logic;

The native language they use to communicate with other computers is incomprehensible to everyone else;

Even the smallest mistakes are stored in long term memory for possible
later retrieval; and ...

As soon as you make a commitment to one, you find yourself spending
half your paycheck on accessories for it.

The women's group, however, concluded that computers should be Masculine
gender ("el computador"), because:
In order to do anything with them, you have to turn them on;

They have a lot of data but still can't think for themselves;

They are supposed to help you solve problems, but half the time they
ARE the problem; and ...

As soon as you commit to one, you realize that if you had waited a little longer, you could have gotten a better model.

You Know You Are Addicted To Coffee If ....

You grind Your coffee beans in Your mouth.

You sleep with Your eyes open.

You have to watch videos in fast-forward.

The only time You're standing still is during an earthquake.

You can take a picture of Yourself from ten feet away without using the timer.

You've worn out Your third pair of tennis shoes this week.

Your eyes stay open when You sneeze.

You chew on other people's fingernails.

The nurse needs a scientific calculator to take Your pulse.

You're so jittery that people use Your hands to blend their margaritas.

You can type sixty words per minute with Your feet.

You can jump-start Your car without cables.

You don't sweat, You percolate.

You run twenty miles on Your treadmill before You realize it's not plugged in.

You forget to unwrap candy bars before eating them.

You've built a miniature city out of little plastic stirrers.

People get dizzy just watching You.

Instant coffee takes too long.

You channel surf faster without a remote.

You have a picture of Your coffee mug on Your coffee mug.

You can outlast the Energizer bunny.

You short out motion detectors.

You don't even wait for the water to boil anymore.

Your nervous twitch registers on the Richter scale.

You help Your dog chase its tail.

You soak Your dentures in coffee overnight.

Your first-aid kit contains two pints of coffee with an I.V. hookup.

You ski uphill.

You get a speeding ticket even when You're parked.

You answer the door before people knock.

You haven't blinked since the last lunar eclipse.

The Senior Pastor
He is faster than a speeding bullet, stronger than a locomotive, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, can walk on water and talks to God.

The Associate Pastor
He is almost as fast as a speeding bullet, is stronger than a switch engine, able to leap short buildings in a single bound, can walk on water, though his ankles get wet and sometimes talks to God.

The Music Minister
He is faster than a speeding BB, is stronger than a Lionel (model) train, able to leap short buildings with a long running start, can walk on water, as long as it is frozen and talks to God but often wonders if He hears.

The Youth Pastor
He is slower than a snail, trips over railroad tracks, walks into buildings, almost drowns in the bathtub and mumbles to himself.

The Church Secretary
Catches speeding bullets in her teeth, chews them up and uses them for staples, could stare a locomotive off its tracks, if a building gets in her way, she just knocks it off its foundation, parts the water to walk through on dry ground and when God calls she asks who is calling and puts him on hold.

One day, a cat dies of natural causes and goes to heaven, where he meets the Lord Himself.

The Lord says to the cat, "You lived a good life, and if there is any way I can make your stay in heaven more comfortable, please let me know."

The cat thinks for a moment and says, "Lord, all my life I have lived with a poor family and had to sleep on a hard wooden floor."

The Lord stops the cat and says, "Say no more," and a wonderful, fluffy pillow appears.

A few days later, six mice are killed in a tragic farming accident, and all of them go to heaven. Again, the Lord is there to greet them with the same offer.

The mice answer, "All our lives we have been chased. We have had to run from cats, dogs, and even women with brooms. Running, running, running; we're tired of running. Do you think we could have roller skates so that we don't have to run anymore?"

The Lord says, "Say no more" and fits each mouse with beautiful new roller skates.

About a week later, the Lord stops by to see the cat and finds him snoozing on the pillow.

The Lord gently wakes the cat and asks him, "How are things since you got here?"

The cat stretches and yawns, then replies, "It is wonderful here. Better than I could have ever expected. And those 'Meals On Wheels' you've been sending by are the best!"

"Rules Of Work"

Never give me work in the morning. Always wait until 4 PM and then bring it to me. The challenge of a deadline is refreshing.

If it is really a rush job, run in and interrupt me every 10 minutes to inquire how it is going. That helps. Even better, hover behind me, and advise me at every keystroke.

Always leave without telling anyone where you are going. It gives me a chance to be creative when someone asks where you are.

If my arms are full of papers, boxes, books or supplies, do not open the door for me. I need to learn how to function as a paraplegic and opening doors with no arms is good training in case I should ever be injured and lose all use of my limbs.

If you give me more than one job to do, do not tell me which is priority. I am psychic.

Do your best to keep me late. I adore this office and really have nowhere to go or anything to do. I have no life beyond work.

If a job I do pleases you, keep it a secret. If that gets out, it could mean a promotion.

If you do not like my work, tell everyone. I like my name to be popular in conversations. I was born to be whipped.

If you have special instructions for a job, do not write them down. In fact, save them until the job is almost done. No use confusing me with useful information.

Never introduce me to the people you are with. I have no right to know anything. In the corporate food chain, I am plankton. When you refer to them later, my shrewd deductions will identify them.

Be nice to me only when the job I am doing for you could really change your life and send you straight to manager's hell.

Tell me all your little problems. No one else has any and it is nice to know someone is less fortunate. I especially like the story about having to pay so many taxes on the bonus check you received for being such a good manager.

Wait until my yearly review and then tell me what my goals should have been. Give me a mediocre performance rating with a token cost of living increase. I am not here for the money anyway.

One day a father and his rich family took his son on a trip to the country with the firm purpose to show him how poor people can be.

They spent a day and a night on the farm of a very poor family. When they got back from their trip, the father asked his son, "How was the trip?"

"Very good Dad!"

"Did you see how poor people can be?" the father asked.

"Yeah!"

"And what did you learn?"

The son answered, "I saw that we have a dog at home, and they have four. We have a pool that reaches to the middle of the garden; they have a creek that has no end. We have imported lamps in the garden; they have the stars.

Our patio reaches to the front yard; they have a whole horizon."

When the little boy was finished, his father was speechless.

His son added, "Thanks, Dad, for showing me how 'poor' we are!"

Isn't it true that it all depends on the way you look at things? If you have love, friends, family, health, good humor and a positive attitude towards life -- you've got everything!

You can't buy any of these things. You may have all the material possessions you can imagine, provisions for the future, etc.; but if you are poor of spirit, you have nothing!

Addendum -- 1 Timothy 6:17 "Command those who are rich in the things of this life not to be proud, but to place their hope, not in such an uncertain thing as riches, but in God, who generously gives us everything for our enjoyment."

Long ago, in the land of Heart, lived a fair maiden who dared to dream dreams. As a young child, she recalled how her father would set her on his strong knee and tell her many wondrous stories about far away and exciting places; lands she somehow knew she would one day come to also travel upon. Of the many tales her father would tell, there was one particular story that always held special meaning, even carrying her into adulthood. It was the presumed true tale of a certain species of butterfly, one that was seen by very few. What made the butterfly highly sought after was its emerald green wings which housed two small heart shapes, one on each wing, thus its coined name, "the elusive butterfly of love." It was said that the person who finds the elusive butterfly would live happily ever after, thus, it is no wonder the maiden searched ardently for the rare insect.

As a child, the fair maiden would prance about the woods with a butterfly net; laughing, smiling, and dancing about in glee, certain she would soon catch the elusive butterfly, but, to no avail. Weeks turned into months, and months into years, and the fair maiden grew older and wiser, wondering if perhaps the elusive butterfly of love was just a silly tale that old fishermen pass on as they sip their bottles of whiskey at sea.

One day, tired of searching, the maiden set down her net, and placing her face in her hands she began to cry. Upon the drying of her salty tears, the fair maiden decided to go on with living, no longer would the search for the elusive butterfly be part of her life.

Life, indeed, did go on, and one day, when the fair maiden was going about her daily errands, an odd-looking shape fluttered about her head. The maiden waved her arms to shoo the insect away, but no matter what she did, it would keep flying about.

The next day, the maiden was surprised to see the odd-looking shape back again. Closer inspection revealed it was some sort of moth or butterfly. In no way did it look like the elusive butterfly of love, in fact, this butterfly's markings and colors were quite different. And so, the fair maiden would go about her errands, and the odd-looking butterfly would follow her, returning each day to flutter about her head. It was not long before the fair maiden and the butterfly formed a unique relationship. For some odd reason, the butterfly seemed to enjoy the maiden's company, and the fair maiden felt a sense of peace and comfort, knowing her winged companion would never leave her side.

Many years passed, and one day, for some strange reason, the fair maiden recalled how she used to search for the elusive butterfly of love. In fact, the more she looked at her faithful winged companion, the more she wondered about the validity of the story of the elusive butterfly. Curiosity soon began to turn into discontentment with the butterfly she had devoted so much of her life to. "Look at you," she whispered to her faithful companion as he sat upon her finger, "You are not beautiful emerald green. Now, especially after so many years, your wings are dull and frayed. Do not worry though, my little friend, you are not the elusive butterfly of love, but you have been faithful, good, and true. I will keep you by my side always."

The maiden set down her winged companion and went outside to the rose garden to get a breath of fresh air, and what did she see? Green as a sparkling cut emerald fluttering about, a pink heart on each wing; the elusive butterfly of love! Like a young school girl, the maiden pranced with glee, scarcely able to believe her eyes! Suddenly, it dawned on the maiden that now she must decide what to do; should she run for a net, or just watch the elusive butterfly as it flutters about her garden, soon to fly away and most likely never be seen again. Joy turned to sadness as the maiden knew what she must do. The maiden gave the elusive butterfly one final look, acknowledging his existence, and turning away, walked out of the garden to return to her faithful winged companion who had befriended her so many years ago.

Inside the house, the maiden was shocked to see her dear friend looking strangely ill. His wings beat weakly, and he could not even manage to fly. The maiden gently picked up her companion and caressed him in the palm of her hand, clearly evident he was at the end of his life. Upon the butterfly's final breath, the maiden shed many tears, tears which flowed over her loving companions frail body. Suddenly, as if out of nowhere, a glimmer of light came from out of her hand. "What is this?" the maiden thought. The ragged wings of her beloved companion seemed to reveal under them something more lovely. Carefully, and tenderly, the maiden peeled away the tattered, old shell which encased her winged friends body, to reveal beautiful wings of emerald green, a small pink heart on each side. Both tears and joy filled the maiden's heart, and her story was thus passed down by the old fishermen sitting down by the sea.

Real life application:

Aren't we all guilty to some degree of searching for or desiring something that, in most cases, is right under our very noses? Thankfully, unlike the above fictional story, love is not elusive at all, and in fact, it is all around us, if we would only fearlessly trust, not only God, but the power of love.

Once upon a time there lived a bear in a cave deep in the woods. Nearby was a meadow in which a farmer kept his cattle -- and one large, ferocious-looking bull. Each day the bear hid at the edge of the woods, watching the bull. The bear was known as the strongest, most fierce creature for miles around. No other beast in the forest dared to tangle with him. As the bear watched the bull peacefully gazing, he wondered which one of them would win a test of strength. He thought about this for many days. Then one morning he decided to challenge the bull to a fight to the finish.

The bull had just chomped down on a fresh clump of clover when he looked up and saw the bear barreling across the meadow toward him. He stopped chewing. The red flag of danger popped up in his head. The bear skidded to a halt in front of him. The bull lowered his head menacingly, his sharp horns aimed right for the bear's throat. For long moments they stood in place -- eyeball to eyeball -- neither one of them moving. Finally the bull grew tired of the stare-down and asked, "What do you want, Bear?"

"I want to fight you," growled the bear.

"Why?" asked the bull.

"Because, I want to prove that I am a stronger and better fighter than you are."

The bull laughed. "I thought you really wanted something. You can't possibly win against me. I have sharp horns that can cause terrible injuries."

"And my claws are sharp and quick," the bear shot back. "I have defeated many an enemy -- anyone who would harm my cubs or take away my mate. I am the king of the forest!"

"Then go back to the forest," the bull bluntly advised. "This is the meadow."

The bear blinked in surprise. "I beg your pardon..."

"I mean, what's the point of me fighting with you?" the bull asked. "What would that prove? We are not enemies. I have not harmed your cubs or taken your mate."

"It would prove that I am the strongest."

"Okay," said the bull, smiling. "I'll buy that. You are strongest. Now leave and let me graze in peace."

"Just one cotton-pickin' minute. What do you mean by that?" The bear raised a club-like paw. "I will tear you to shreds. Defend yourself."

"What you do is up to you," the bull answered calmly. "But if you do, what will all your friends -- the ones who are watching us right now -- think about you?"

"They will think that I am the strongest," yelled the frustrated bear.

"I don't think so. I do not choose to fight you just because you choose to fight with me. I would only fight to defend one of the cows in my care. If you attack one of them, then I'd be obliged to give you a good lashing."

"I can't attack them," protested the bear. "They can't fight back. There would be no victory to it."

"Exactly," answered the bull. "But what if you did? And what if I should try to defend them? What if something should happen to me? Who would protect them then? You? Would you trust me to protect your cubs if something happened to you? What would happen to your family if you lose the fight?"

"I never thought of that," said the bear.

"Go back into the woods, Bear," said the bull as he turned to walk away. "Live in peace. And I will stay in the meadow and do the same."

The bear turned toward the woods. He had come spoiling for a fight -- to prove which one was the strongest. But he had learned an important lesson from a very wise bull. In peace, there are no losers.

Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out. (Proverbs 17:14)

A vacationing family is driving along in their car, windows rolled down, enjoying the warm summer breeze of the sunny day. All of a sudden a big black bee darts in the window and starts buzzing around inside the car. A little girl, highly allergic to bee stings, cringes in the back seat.

If she is stung, she could die within an hour (or sooner).

"Oh, Daddy," she squeals in terror, "it's a bee! It's going to sting me!"

The father pulls the car over to a stop, and reaches back to try to catch the bee. Buzzing towards him, the bee bumps against the front windshield where the father traps it in his fist. Holding it in his closed hand, the father waits for the inevitable sting. The bee stings the father's hand and in pain, the father lets go of the bee.

The bee is loose in the car again. The little girl again panics, "Daddy, it's going to sting me!"

The father gently says, "No honey, he's not going to sting you now. Look at my hand."

The bee's stinger is in my hand!

1 Cor. 15:55 -- "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?"

Jesus says to us, "Look at my hands."

He has Satan's sting,
the sting of death,
the sting of sin,
the sting of deceit,
the sting of feeling worthless.
Jesus has all of those stingers in His hands.

When you see that nail-scarred hand, realize that, on your behalf, Jesus took all the pain that Satan could throw at Him. He reduced Satan to a big black bee that has lost its stinger -- all Satan can do is buzz around.

That's the victory that Jesus won for you!

An emperor in the Far East was growing old and knew it was time to choose His successor. Instead of choosing one of his assistants or his children, he decided something different. He called young people in the kingdom together one day.

He said, "It is time for me to step down and choose the next emperor. I have decided to choose one of you." The kids were shocked! But the emperor continued. "I am going to give each one of you a seed today, one very special seed. I want you to plant the seed, water it and come back here one year from today with what you have grown from this one seed. I will then judge the plants that you bring, and the one I choose will be the next emperor!"

One boy named Ling was there that day, and he, like the others, received a seed. He went home and excitedly told his mother the story. She helped him get a pot and planting soil, and he planted the seed and watered it carefully. Every day he would water it and watch to see if it had grown.

After about three weeks, some of the other youths began to talk about their seeds and the plants that were beginning to grow. Ling kept checking his seed, but nothing ever grew. Three weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks went by. Still nothing.

By now, others were talking about their plants but Ling didn't have a plant, and he felt like a failure. Six months went by; still nothing in Ling's pot.

He just knew he had killed his seed. Everyone else had trees and tall plants, but he had nothing. Ling didn't say anything to his friends, however. He just kept waiting for his seed to grow.

A year finally went by and all the youths of the kingdom brought their plants to the emperor for inspection. Ling told his mother that he wasn't going to take an empty pot, but his Mother said he must be honest about what happened.

Ling felt sick to his stomach, but he knew his Mother was right. He took his empty pot to the palace.

When Ling arrived, he was amazed at the variety of plants grown by the other youths. They were beautiful - in all shapes and sizes. Ling put his empty pot on the floor and many of the other kinds laughed at him. A few felt sorry for him and said, "Hey nice try."

When the emperor arrived, he surveyed the room and greeted the young people. Ling just tried to hide in the back. "My, what great plants, trees and flowers you have grown," said the emperor. "Today, one of you will be appointed the next emperor!"

All of a sudden, the emperor spotted Ling at the back of the room with his empty pot. He ordered his guards to bring him to the front. Ling was terrified. "The emperor knows I'm a failure! Maybe he will have me killed!"

When Ling got to the front, the Emperor asked his name. "My name is Ling," he replied. All the kids were laughing and making fun of him. The emperor asked everyone to quiet down. He looked at Ling, and then announced to the crowd, "Behold your new emperor! His name is Ling!" Ling couldn't believe it. Ling couldn't even grow his seed. How could he be the new emperor?

Then the emperor said, "One year ago today, I gave everyone here a seed. I told you to take the seed, plant it, water it and bring it back to me today. But I gave you all boiled seeds, which would not grow. All of you, except Ling, have brought me trees and plants and flowers. When the rest of you found that the seed would not grow, you substituted another seed for the one I gave you. Ling was the only one with the courage and honesty to bring me a pot with my seed in it. Therefore, he is the one who will be the new emperor!"

A mouse looked through a crack in the wall to see the farmer and his wife opening a package; what food might it contain?

He was aghast to discover that it was a mouse trap!

Retreating to the farmyard, the mouse proclaimed the warning, "There is a mouse trap in the house, there is a mouse trap in the house."

The chicken clucked and scratched, raised her head and said, "Mr. Mouse, I can tell you this is a grave concern to you, but it is of no consequence to me; I cannot be bothered by it."

The mouse turned to the pig and told him, "There is a mouse trap in the house."

"I am so very sorry Mr. Mouse," sympathized the pig, "but there is nothing I can do about it but pray; be assured that you are in my prayers."

The mouse turned to the cow, who replied, "Like wow, Mr. Mouse, a mouse trap; am I in grave danger, Duh?"

So the mouse returned to the house, head down and dejected to face the farmer's mouse trap alone.

That very night a sound was heard throughout the house, like the sound of a mouse trap catching its prey. The farmer's wife rushed to see what was caught.

In the darkness, she did not see that it was a venomous snake whose tail the trap had caught.

The snake bit the farmer's wife.

The farmer rushed her to the hospital.

She returned home with a fever. Now everyone knows you treat a fever with fresh chicken soup, so the farmer took his hatchet to the farmyard for the soup's main ingredient.

His wife's sickness continued so that friends and neighbors came to sit with her around the clock. To feed them, the farmer butchered the pig.

The farmer's wife did not get well, in fact, she died, and so many people came for her funeral the farmer had the cow slaughtered to provide meat for all of them to eat.

So the next time you hear that someone is facing a problem and think that it does not concern you, remember that when the least of us is threatened, we are all at risk.

Do not forget to do good and to help one another,
because these are the sacrifices that please God.
Hebrews 13:16 GNT

One day a young man was standing in the middle of the town proclaiming that he had the most beautiful heart in the whole valley. A large crowd gathered and they all admired his heart for it was perfect. There was not a mark or a flaw in it. Yes, they all agreed it truly was the most beautiful heart they had ever seen. The young man was very proud and boasted more loudly about his beautiful heart.

Suddenly, an old man appeared at the front of the crowd and said "Why your heart is not nearly as beautiful as mine." The crowd and the young man looked at the old man's heart. It was beating strongly, but full of scars, it had places where pieces had been removed and other pieces put in, but they didn't fit quite right and there were several jagged edges. In fact, in some places there were deep gouges where whole pieces were missing.

The people stared - how can he say his heart is more beautiful, they thought? The young man looked at the old man's heart and saw its state and laughed. "You must be joking," he said. "Compare your heart with mine, mine is perfect and yours is a mess of scars and tears."

"Yes," said the old man, "Yours is perfect looking but I would never trade with you. You see, every scar represents a person to whom I have given my love - I tear out a piece of my heart and give it to them, and often they give me a piece of their heart which fits into the empty place in my heart, but because the pieces aren't exact, I have some rough edges, which I cherish, because they remind me of the love we shared. Sometimes I have given pieces of my heart away, and the other person hasn't returned a piece of his heart to me. These are the empty gouges -- giving love is taking a chance.

Although these gouges are painful, they stay open, reminding me of the love I have for these people too, and I hope someday they may return and fill the space I have waiting. So now do you see what true beauty is?"

The young man stood silently with tears running down his cheeks. He walked up to the old man, reached into his perfect young and beautiful heart, and ripped a piece out. He offered it to the old man with trembling hands. The old man took his offering, placed it in his heart and then took a piece from his old scarred heart and placed it in the wound in the young man's heart. It fit, but not perfectly, as there were some jagged edges. The young man looked at his heart, not perfect anymore but more beautiful than ever, since love from the old man's heart flowed into his. They embraced and walked away side by side.

How sad it must be to go through life with a whole untouched heart.

Three young men were once given three kernels of corn apiece by a wise old sage, who admonished them to go out into the world, and use the corn to bring themselves good fortune.

The first young man put his three kernels of corn into a bowl of hot broth and ate them. The second thought, I can do better than that, and he planted his three kernels of corn. Within a few months, he had three stalks of corn. He took the ears of corn from the stalks, boiled them, and had enough corn for three meals.

The third man said to himself, I can do better than that! He also planted his three kernels of corn, but when his three stalks of corn produced, he stripped one of the stalks and replanted all of the seeds in it, gave the second stalk of corn to a sweet maiden, and ate the third. His one full stalk's worth of replanted corn kernels gave him 200 stalks of corn! And the kernels of these he continued to replant, setting aside only a bare minimum to eat. He eventually planted a hundred acres of corn. With his fortune, he not only won the hand of the sweet maiden but purchased the land owned by the sweet maiden's father. And he never hungered again.

The more you give, the more you get. However, that should NOT be the reason for your giving.

Proverbs 11:24 NLT
It is possible to give freely and become more wealthy, but those who are stingy will lose everything.

Proverbs 11:25 NLT
The generous prosper and are satisfied; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.

Once there was a peasant girl named Miriam who lived in a small village. Her widowed mother had spent much time instructing the girl about the proper way to behave and taught Miriam right from wrong.

The summer of her twelfth year, Miriam's family became quite destitute. A region-wide drought caused the family's garden plot to wilt, then die. There would be no vegetables to put up and savored through the cold months ahead. Food became very difficult to find.

At first, Miriam missed the taste of fresh corn and carrots. Then she craved them. Each day Miriam had to venture further from home to find water for her family's needs and every day she desired what she had always taken for granted. Then the day came when Miriam discovered an artesian well. Water gushed forth providing fresh, clean, cold water from deep under the ground.

She followed the stream as it flowed from the well and discovered a beautiful garden filled with sweet corn, potatoes, carrots and cabbage and a generous variety of vegetables more numerous than she had ever seen. She could almost taste a fresh pot of homemade stew made from the abundance of these beautiful plants. The longer she looked at the garden, the more she desired the crops.

After entertaining the idea for far too long, Miriam hurriedly loaded her apron with as many vegetables as she could carry and then she returned the way she came, glancing furtively behind her, knowing she had stolen - knowing that what she had done was wrong.

"Where did you get those vegetables?" A man's voice startled Miriam.

"I uh," she stammered, "I found them."

"In the middle of a drought?" The man queried. "I think not," he challenged gently.

Miriam wrestled with defiance, then anger, followed by a rather feeble attempt at justifying her act of thievery. In the end she could do no less than admit that she had indeed stolen the garden produce.

"I knew that you took my vegetables," the man stated.

"Your vegetables," Miriam blustered.

"`Tis true. I have worked hard all summer growing these crops and I had grand plans for them," the man added significantly.

"I am so ashamed," Miriam replied bowing her head.

The man was warmed by Miriam's act of contrition. "I am willing to extend to you either mercy or grace. Which is your desire?" The man asked.

"Are they not the same thing, sir?" Miriam asked.

"Indeed not, my lady," the man replied.

"Then please explain what mercy provides?" she asked.

"If I were to grant mercy, you would be completely forgiven for taking my vegetables," the man replied.

"Then this is what I most desire," the young girl said relieved.

"Perhaps this is true, yet you will hear the matter of grace," the man insisted, "Should I extend grace, you would be invited to come and gather any vegetables from my garden that you like at any time you like. It would be as if you were a member of my family with all the rights of a daughter."

Miriam marveled at the gifts offered to her. She knew that she did not deserve the man's kindness and yet she longed in equal measure for both mercy and grace.

"Sir, I do not deserve either mercy or grace. For I deserve a punishment and am in no way deserving of the rights of a family member. Still, I could not leave with a pure heart without an equal measure of both," Miriam said with a tear gleaming in her eye.

The man smiled broadly and replied, "My dear child, you shall indeed have both - Mercy and Grace. For in my mercy I will not exact a punishment that is justly deserved and in my grace I will give to you what can never be earned."

Point of Encouragement: This story is a picture of how God deals with us. It is His mercy that embraces us in our sin offering forgiveness and it is in His grace that we find that we are given the right to be His children. Like Miriam, the only way grace can be ours is to accept the gift of Jesus Christ that is offered to us by God Himself. God did not have to forgive us (show mercy), nor did he have to allow us to become members of His family (extending grace). But both mercy and grace are necessary to show the depth of His love for us.

Twin fountains of muddy water splashed into the air as the car left the road and plunged into what was left of a farmer's field. The two men inside were violently thrown inside the car. Luckily both were wearing shoulder harnesses so their injuries were slight. But both discovered that a few bumps and bruises were the least of their worries at the moment. Slowly and steadily the automobile was sinking into the water and mire. They would either have to swim or drown.

The men struggled out of their harnesses as water gushed in around the doors. A strong current was against them at first and the door wouldn't budge. Finally with a mighty heave, fueled by overwhelming panic, they got one of the doors open and splashed their way out of the sinking vehicle.

It was pitch dark. The water was freezing cold. Violent winds lashed a curtain of rain into cutting sheets of icy water. The storm had been going on now for the better part of a day.

The men had been on a business trip when the first Hurricane Watch was issued. Their first thought was to come home and care for their families. But this was an important meeting -- not one to be missed by a young man on the fast track to success. So they had waited until almost the last minute -- until the storm was almost upon them. By the time they were only a few miles from home, the storm was bellowing with 90-mile-per-hour winds. They had almost made it, but the road had suddenly disappeared beneath their automobile. Now they found themselves neck deep in a raging torrent from which there seemed no escape.

"Bill," the first man yelled into the howling wind. "Where are you?"

A streak of lightning shot through the sky. A clap of thunder rolled through the soggy heavens.

"Bill!" the first man cried again. "Answer me."

"I'm over here, Jack," came a faint reply. "Over here!"

Jack squinted his eyes, trying to peer through the rain but he could see nothing.

"Are you okay?" Jack shouted into the wind.

"Yeah," was the faint reply. "But we're gonna drown if we don't get out of here. This current is murder."

Another bolt of lightning, then a tremendous clap of thunder. For a moment Jack thought he saw Bill struggling in the water. "Over here!" Jack shouted.

"I can't see you," Bill answered. "All this water and mud is in my eyes. I can't see anything."

"Follow the sound of my voice," Jack bellowed over the storm. "I'm over here."

Then Jack began to pray. "O Lord, I haven't been a very good Christian and I'm a terrible sinner, but please help us before we drown. Our families need us. Please, Lord. Help me find Bill and get us out of this mess. Amen."

Suddenly Jack felt someone grab his hand and start pulling. "Wait a minute, Bill. Where are you going?"

"I don't know," he heard a voice reply. "I can't tell one direction from the other. But I'm heading somewhere. Hold on tight."

Jack felt his friend pull him again. Oh, well, he figured, one way is as good as another. Jack started moving forward. The wind-lashed rain stung his face and grimy water dripped into his eyes. He was moving blind.

The soft earth of the field was now deep mud. It sucked at his feet and pulled at his legs. He lost his shoes in the sticky slime. His suit was water-drenched and heavy. If the water got over his head, he knew that he would surely sink to the bottom.

But what was this? Was the water getting shallower? Now it was only to his waist -- now to his knees. Then to his ankles. He felt the hand let go as he stumbled onto firm ground. Jack promptly looked for Bill, but he was not there. He squinted again into the storm and saw his friend stagger up a little bank onto a grassy knoll, about 150 feet to his right. The current was still strong. He must have been swept down stream at the last minute, just as Jack had reached high ground. Thank God he had made his way to shore.

Jack struggled to his feet, uttered a silent "Thank you, Lord," and made his way down the grassy bank to the spot where Bill was kneeling and coughing up muddy water from his lungs. There was another brilliant flash of lightning and a deafening clap of thunder. "Are you all right, Bill," Jack asked anxiously as he put his arm over his friend's back.

"Yeah, I think so," Bill sputtered. Then Bill sat down on the bank, trying to catch his breath. "Now, what are we going to do. The car's gone and we can't get back across that," he said as he nodded toward the raging torrent in front of them.

"I guess the best thing to do is to find shelter and wait it out. I remember a little cave near here. If we can reach that, we'll be okay until the storm clears."

Bill nodded. Jack helped him to his feet. "And, thanks," Bill said. "Thanks for pulling me out of the water and saving my life. I didn't know which way to go."

Jack laughed. "I think you're the one who had a hold of me rather than me having hold of you. I was about to thank you for the same thing."

Suddenly Bill stopped and turned to his friend. "Wait a minute. You were a good distance away from me when we found this bank. But you said that I had you, and I say that you had me. The truth is that neither one of us had the other.

"What are you saying," Jack asked, suddenly becoming very nervous.

"If you were all the way up there and I was all the way down here," Jack asked, "then who was holding our hands?"

"Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise." (James 5:13 NIV)

(Adapted from the Parable of the Sower)

A man was strolling along the beach one day when he spotted a bottle washed up on the shore. He went over and picked it up, and noticed a message in the bottle. He popped the cork out and inside was a weathered treasure map indicating that there was buried treasure to be found in the shallow waters below. But the man thought it was a hoax, so he slipped the map back in and threw the bottle back into the ocean...

A little later, another man was walking along the beach and the bottle had washed upon the shore. He too picked up the bottle, popped out the cork, and found the treasure map. This man, however, was curious enough to wade into the water and hoped it was buried shallow enough to find. But once the cold ocean waters reached up to his thighs, he decided to quit. "This is not worth it!" he thought to himself. So he scrambled back to shore and chucked the bottle back into the ocean....

A third man was walking by the beach and noticed the bottle washed upon the shore. He went over, opened the bottle and found the map. The map looked authentic enough, and promised great treasure... So he got himself a small raft and set out into the ocean to claim the treasure..he rowed out far enough into the ocean where the "X" on the map was and to his surprise, he saw the glint of something shining in the waters below..he dove into the ocean and swam towards the shining object below..he could see that there was something that looked like a treasure chest, but he couldn't quite reach it and the deeper he went, the greater the cold and pressure on his body and his mind..," I am about to lose my breath, and the longer i take, my raft might be swept away!", he thought. So the man decided to give up the hunt so he would ensure his own life and safety..when he reached the shore once more, he took the bottle from the raft and tossed it back into the ocean...

Finally, one more man was walking along the beach. He noticed the bottle, went over, popped it open, and was excited to find a map promising great treasure. He noticed someone had left a raft by the water's edge, so he took it and paddled out. He too, got far enough to where the "X" marks the spot, and squinted into the waters and saw the shadow and glint of the treasure below. He took a deep breath and plunged into the waters. Like the man before him, the cold, darkness and pressure upon his senses increased as he got closer. He also realized that if he kept swimming, that he might lose his breath, the raft, and even his own life! But this treasure could be worth all the risk and he persisted. Just as he was about to give up, he grabbed the long chain that was binding the chest and pulled it up along with himself back to the surface. He broke the surface of the water gasping and exhausted but with the treasure chest safely in his grasp. He paddled back to the shore, opened up the treasure chest and found what the map had promised--gold, and precious diamonds and jewels that would make him secure for the rest of his life.

** A relationship with Jesus Christ is a similar treasure hunt. People hear the same message, but the way they receive it will determine the reward they might find. Eternal life is waiting for all those who are willing to take that risk to follow Jesus all the way to the "X" (the Cross), where we find love, forgiveness and life everlasting.... for eternity.

A story is told about a mountain climber who liked to climb tall mountains for fun and to impress his friends. After years of preparation and training he felt he could handle any mountain terrain in the world, regardless of the degree of difficulty.

During a climbing trip, with five other men, he decided he would make the final climb to the summit, solo, so he could get there first and claim the glory, while the others slept. After the rest of the climbing party turned-in for the night, he put on his climbing gear and headed toward the summit. As he started his climb, he was very glad there was a full moon to help him see where he was going.

Although it was foolish to climb at night, alone, he did use a rope and put in good piton protection as he climbed. With the benefit of the full moon, he made rapid progress up the mountain, in spite of the fact he was climbing at night. His confidence soared as he neared the summit, but unfortunately, thick clouds were starting to build around the mountain, and visibility was deteriorating rapidly, as a winter storm developed. In just a few minutes visibility dropped to almost zero, as heavy clouds and fog surrounded him. It was now too late to turn back, so he continued to climb up the mountain, hoping the storm would blow by quickly.

While moving along a narrow traverse, now in total darkness, he got into some “rotten rock,” and slid down the side of the ridge and over the edge of a cliff. The good news is the protection he put in held, and he was still alive after the fall; although he now found himself dangling in the air, suspended from his rope, unable to see anything around him. The bad news is, he had loosely tied his outer heavy parka across the top of his backpack while he was climbing, and he now discovered he had lost it during the fall. Slowly the cold night air from the storm began to chill him to the bone through his lightweight inner jacket. After struggling to turn himself around in a circle, and not finding anything to grab onto, in desperation he cried out, “Oh dear God in Heaven, please help me!”

Suddenly, from above he heard a strong deep voice boom out, “Cut the rope!” “What?!” As the climber listened over the wind, once again he heard a deep voice say, “Cut the rope!”

Except for the wind, silence followed, as the climber continued to hang onto the rope, while hoping to be able to grab onto something that would enable him to climb to safety. Unable to see his true situation, the climber concluded, as most people would, that hanging onto the rope was his only hope.

The following day, the rest of his climbing party discovered him frozen to death, still dangling from his rope -- only eight feet above a large out-cropping of rock. Had the climber cut the rope, he would have dropped down to a relatively safe area, where he could have built a fire, using some of the surrounding scrub brush, and probably survived the night.

From this tragic, hopefully fictional story, we can learn about trusting God. Do you look for security in a “rope” of some form? Or, are you willing to trust God with the many things in life beyond your knowledge or control?

Try to always remember: “For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” Isaiah 41:13.

Many years ago in a small village, a farmer had the misfortune of owing a large sum of money to a village moneylender.

The moneylender, who was an awful, mean man, fancied the farmer's beautiful daughter. Since the farmer was unable to pay the debt, the moneylender proposed a deal.

He said he would forgo the farmer's debt if he could marry his daughter. Both the farmer and his daughter were horrified by the proposal. So the cunning money-lender suggested that they let providence decide the matter. He told them that he would put a black pebble and a white pebble into an empty money bag.

Then the girl would have to pick one pebble from the bag.

If she picked the black pebble, she would become his wife and her father's debt would be forgiven.

If she picked the white pebble she need not marry him and her father's debt would still be forgiven.

But if she refused to pick a pebble, her father would be thrown into jail.
They were standing on a pebble strewn path in the farmer's field. As they talked, the moneylender bent over to pick up two pebbles. As he picked them up, the sharp-eyed girl noticed that he had picked up two black pebbles and put them into the bag. He then told the girl to pick a pebble from the bag.

Now, imagine that you were standing in the field.

What would you have done if you were the girl?

If you had to advise her, what would you have told her?

Careful analysis would produce three possibilities:
The girl should refuse to take a pebble.

The girl should show that there were two black pebbles in the bag and expose the money-lender as a cheat.

The girl should pick a black pebble and sacrifice herself in order to save her father from his debt and imprisonment.
Take a moment to ponder over the story. The above story is used with the hope that it will help us appreciate the difference between lateral and logical thinking. The girl's dilemma cannot be solved with traditional logical thinking. Think of the consequences if she chooses the above logical answers.

What would you recommend to the Girl to do?

Well, here is what she did . . . .

The girl put her hand into the moneybag and drew out a pebble. Without looking at it, she fumbled and let it fall onto the pebble-strewn path where it immediately became lost among all the other pebbles.

"Oh, how clumsy of me," she said. "But never mind, if you look into the bag for the one that is left, you will be able to tell which pebble I picked."

Since the remaining pebble is black, it is reasonable to assumed that she had picked the white one. And since the money-lender dared not admit his dishonesty, the girl changed what seemed an impossible situation into an extremely favorable one for herself and her father.

Once there were three trees on a hill in the woods. They were discussing their hopes and dreams when the first tree said, "Someday I hope to be a treasure chest. I could be filled with gold, silver and precious gems. could be decorated with intricate carving and everyone would see the beauty." Then the second tree said, "Someday I will be a mighty ship. I will take kings and queens across the waters and sail to the corners of the world. Everyone will feel safe in me because of the strength of my hull." Finally the third tree said, "I want to grow to be the tallest and straightest tree in the forest. People will see me on top of the hill and look up to my branches, and think of the heavens and God and how close to them I am reaching. I will be the greatest tree of all time and people will always remember me."

After a few years of praying that their dreams would come true, a group of woodsmen came upon the trees. When one came to the first tree he said, "This looks like a strong tree, I think I should be able to sell the wood to a carpenter" ... and he began cutting it down. The tree was happy, because he knew that the carpenter would make him into a treasure chest. At the second tree a woodsman said, "This looks like a strong tree, I should be able to sell it to the shipyard." The second tree was happy because he knew he was on his way to becoming a mighty ship. When the woodsmen came upon the third tree, the tree was frightened because he knew that if they cut him down his dreams would not come true. One of the woodsmen said, "I don't need anything special from my tree so I'll take this one", and he cut it down."

When the first tree arrived at the carpenters, he was made into a feed box for animals. He was then placed in a barn and filled with hay. This was not at all what he had prayed for. The second tree was cut and made into a small fishing boat. His dreams of being a mighty ship and carrying kings had come to an end. The third tree was cut into large pieces and left alone in the dark.

The years went by, and the trees forgot about their dreams. Then one day, a man and woman came to the barn. She gave birth and they placed the baby in the hay in the feed box that was made from the first tree. The man wished that he could have made a crib for the baby, but this manger would have to do. The tree could feel the importance of this event and knew that it had held the greatest treasure of all time.

Years later, a group of men got in the fishing boat made from the second tree. One of them was tired and went to sleep. While they were out on the water, a great storm arose and the tree didn't think it was strong enough to keep the men safe. The men woke the sleeping man, and he stood and said "Peace" and the storm stopped. At this time, the tree knew that it had carried the King of Kings in its boat.

Finally, someone came and got the third tree. It was carried through the streets as the people mocked the man who was carrying it. When they came to a stop, the man was nailed to the tree and raised in the air to die at the top of a hill. When Sunday came, the tree came to realize that it was strong enough to stand at the top of the hill and be as close to God as was possible, because Jesus had been crucified on it.

The moral of this story is that when things don't seem to be going your way, always know that God has a plan for you. If you place your trust in Him, He will give you great gifts. Each of the trees got what they wanted, just not in the way they had imagined. We don't always know what God's plans are for us. We just know that His ways are not our ways, but His ways are always best.